Reflection for EDUC 6713

Throughout this course I developed and followed a GAME plan. GAME plans are a way to develop self-directed learning through the process of setting Goals, taking Action to meet those goals, Monitoring progress towards the goals, and Evaluating if the goals were achieved and Extending the learning to new situations. As a result of my work with this process, I have learned several new things. The first thing is the process itself. GAME plans are a process for meeting goals in a systematic way. This will create an impact in my instructional practice since I am now able to work more closely with my students in creating and reaching their goals. The process is one I am able to work through with my students both as a classroom and as individuals. Another thing that I have learned is how to be persistent in reaching my goals. It is important to constantly monitor my progress or risk losing focus on accomplishing my goals. Being persistent also means working hard to convince those who make the decisions that the technology is truly a benefit for our students, and not just another wasted expense. When the initial response is no, I should be able to present evidence that shows what the integration of technology can accomplish. With time, I can make a difference in this area. This will impact my instructional practice in that I need to be willing to look at new ideas myself and see if they can benefit my students and improve their learning.

One of the biggest immediate adjustments I will be making to my instructional practice regarding technology integration into my content areas came as a result of the unit plan I created for this class. One of the assignments was for me to create a three lesson unit that dealt with my students using technology to solve a real world problem. As part of the unit, my students also needed to use technology to collaborate online and create a digital story. I used the problem of creating a playground that is accessible to students with physical disabilities. This is something that my students face in their lives every day, as most of them are in wheelchairs. We will begin this unit in January and their solutions to the problem will be used in building the new playground this spring. This will show my students that they can make a difference, and will have me alter my direct teaching into more of a learner-based system where I play the role of a guide in their journey. This has also helped me change the way that I create my units, by integrating technology as it fits into the content areas, instead of trying to alter the content areas to fit the technology I want to use. Overall, I am excited to begin work with this unit, as I know my students will be motivated and engaged in the activities.

Shannon Eno