Final Reflection

In C&I 306, I have learned about integrating technology into the classroom. I didn't think too much of technology at the beginning of this class, but now that it is completed, I can really reflect on everything I have learned. To start, I never thought blogging could be of any benefit, but after actually having my own blog, I have realized it is a real eye-opener to learning about yourself and your reactions. I am still not too fond of the other online stuff like Wikis and Twitter. However, I feel I could use GoogleDocs, Google Earth, Podcasts, Flickr, and Blogs in my classroom. I tried doing the Twitter thing, but it still just seems too "next-generation" and not applicable to education. While I was skeptical of all these technologies at the beginning of the semester, I am reluctant to try most of them out now. Because of this, I plan to be more open to technology in the future. If used in the right ways, it can be an asset to teachers in the classroom. This was a helpful class, and my teacher did a great job of portraying technology to me.

Piano Poem

Google Earth

This was a really fun assignment. I became aware of many more ways to use Google Earth besides my normal, easy "search" ways. This is a great tool to use in the classroom and would be educational for all students. I could use this in my P.E. classroom in the future.

Twitter

I think Twitter is good for some things, however, I will NOT be using it in my classroom, nor will I use it in my personal time. I believe it will lead to a downward spiral in our society's social status. As I have talked about before, there is a gap between generations because of technology. I do not want my future children to lose contact with their grandparents because one generation Twitters and the other writes letters. That is an exaggeration, I know, but I still think Twitter is not an "expansion" of our technology.

Google Docs

Google Docs will definitely be beneficial in the classroom. I especially like its simplicity. You can set up a PowerPoint, survey, or assignment in a short amount of time and without any difficulties. I will be using Google Docs when I start teaching.

Practice Podcast: Piano

WIKIS!

Wikis are pretty cool. I think they will be a great resource for the classroom, and I definitely plan on using a wiki for myself. Like blogs, I am sure wikis will take some getting used to, but for the most part, they have my vote.