Looking Back, Looking Ahead

 

Image Source: Appinventiv



Hello, everyone!


Wow, it's hard to believe we've reached the final week of EDU 776. What a journey it's been! As a high school science teacher who's always been tech-savvy, I entered this course with excitement and curiosity about how technology could further enhance my teaching practices. Looking back, I can confidently say that this course has broadened my perspective on technology in education.


One of the key takeaways for me was the power of blogs for communication. Throughout this course, I've been using this blog as a platform to share my thoughts, experiences, and insights. It has been a fantastic tool not only for expressing my ideas but also for connecting with my fellow educators. The ability to curate and share content has been eye-opening, and I can see how it can greatly benefit both educators and students in the learning process.


Professional web presence was another crucial topic. While I've always maintained an online presence, this course encouraged me to fine-tune it, ensuring it reflects my professional identity accurately. It's essential for educators to be easily accessible and provide a positive digital representation.


Exploring online communities and professional learning networks (PLNs) was a highlight for me. It's amazing to witness the power of collective knowledge and the support available within these networks. I plan to continue nurturing my PLN as it has been an invaluable source of inspiration and insights.


The discussions on active learning and 21st-century students were particularly relevant to my role as a high school science teacher. It reinforced the idea that technology should not replace traditional teaching methods but complement them, making learning more engaging and interactive.


The module on educational technology research opened my eyes to the importance of evidence-based practices. It's crucial to stay informed about the latest research findings to make informed decisions about integrating technology into the classroom.


Exploring various digital Web 2.0 tools was both fun and enlightening. I discovered new resources that I can incorporate into my lessons to make them more interactive and dynamic. Assistive technology, another important topic, reminded me of the importance of inclusivity in the classroom.


Digital tattoos and the concept of our online identities being a reflection of our real selves struck a chord with me. It reinforced the need to guide our students on responsible online behavior and the long-lasting impact it can have.


Finally, discussing social media in education highlighted the opportunities for collaboration and engagement that platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook offer in the educational context. It's an area I plan to explore further to connect with my students and fellow educators.


In retrospect, this course has reinforced my belief that technology is a powerful tool in education. It can foster collaboration, creativity, and engagement when used thoughtfully. While my views on technology in education haven't drastically changed, this course has provided me with a richer understanding of how to leverage technology to create a more dynamic and inclusive learning environment for my students.


As I look ahead, I'm excited to apply what I've learned in my high school science classroom. I believe that by integrating technology effectively, I can better prepare my students for the ever-evolving digital world while maintaining the essence of hands-on scientific discovery.


Thank you all for this wonderful learning experience, and I look forward to continuing this journey in the world of educational technology! 🚀📚💻


P.S. This was the GIF I posted as school was starting up, both for Dominican and my place of employment: 

Source: GIFY


Thankfully, that looming mountain is getting smaller and smaller! I am in such a great groove right now, and life is really THRIVING for me! A word I find myself using more and more. Because of that, the following GIF is a much better representation of my current state of mind: 


Source: GIFY

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