Final+Assessment+-+Course+Reflection+-+EDLD+5364

Entering this course, simply going by the name, I expected to not only learn how to use technology in the classroom, but how to use some new technologies as well. As the first expectation was met in the actual exercises, the second one was met by researching, working with team members, experimenting, etc. So, the outcomes were met, just in a different manner that anticipated. Reflecting back on it, I realize this was really a better learning experience, as this is how we taught our teacher to learn new technologies in our final project. And it is also the manner in which we discover innovative tools in our jobs. Everything learned and practiced in this course has been relevant to my job, with the possible exception of the state standards for students and teachers. Given that I work on the college level, this knowledge is not directly needed in my job. However, I feel that it does give me a better understanding of what our students have learned during their pre-college years, thus giving me a better understanding of their capabilities coming into our environment. I was able to achieve the outcomes expected in this course. Having the technology background that I possess has provided me with a definite advantage. Those in the course that do not already have a knowledge of technology will have more obstacles to face. However, e ven being familiar with the many tools I work with on a daily basis, I still encountered a learning curve while working with some of the tools we used throughout. I can only imagine how difficult it would have been otherwise. I was able to meet all deadlines, and complete all assignments in this course. Since this was my second course, being familiar with the courseware was helpful. The most difficulty, I believe, was in finding time to complete the assignments. Especially during weeks three and four, the assignments required a great deal of time, much collaboration, and research on the new tools we were to use. In addition to my course assignments, I also prepared for and took my GRE during that time. So that was an added stressor and time consuming factor to my accomplishments. Having the team to communicate with was a big help. They were all encouraging and very understanding as I lagged behind them in preparing my assignments for a couple of weeks. During this course I learned a little about myself. I discovered that I still enjoy learning new tools, two (or more) heads ARE better than one, and there is still so much out there to learn. I consider myself to be well versed in technology; and realize that technology is ever-changing. But this course has helped me discover so very many new tools and websites that are available to assist with instruction. It is almost overwhelming. One would have to stay fairly specific in doing web research to prevent the choices from becoming so vast, it would seem impossible to discern which tools are truly appropriate for specific tasks. In addition, as I tend to be an organizer, it was somewhat difficult to not take the reigns, and serve as the leader of our group. Our leader, however, did a wonderful job in keeping us organized and on track. Therefore I am deeply grateful to her. Although I usually like to take the lead on projects to assure it is complete and accurate, it was nice to sit back and let someone else perform those duties this time. But – you can be sure I will be volunteering before this degree is completed. This course has been a wonderful experience, and I look forward to beginning again in January!