As a 21st century educator it is best to understand that the future of our student’s success is in our hands. Technology will influence both what and how students learn and teachers teach (Schrum & Levin, 2009, p. 6). This course has allowed me to become exposed to so many different technological advances that can be used and incorporated into the classroom. I have learned that you don’t need top of the line technology and equipment to create for a successful technologically integrated classroom. There are so many different free websites out there such as Wordle, WebQuest’s, Wiki’s, virtual field trips, blogs and social media. My thinking about technology is that technology should supplement your lessons and not be used just for the sole purpose of saying you used technology. There should be a purpose for using technology and not every lesson taught will work best with technology. As many states are adapting to the Common Core State Standards it is important that teachers create a focus on using technology that incorporates classroom lessons aligned with state standards and expectations. Overall, it is clear by the research that web-based and online instruction is transforming the practice of teaching (Angel & Valanides, 2009; Talent-Runnels et al.,2006). Therefore, as a 21st century my progress of becoming a highly qualified educator must be taken upon myself to educate myself and collaborate with colleagues to learn what types of technological advances are best practice in the classroom.
Citation
Angeli, C., & Valanides, N. (2009). Epistemological and methodological issues for the conceptualization, development, and assessment of ICT–TPCK: Advances in technological pedagogical content knowledge (TPCK). Computers & Education, 52(1), 154–168.
Schrum, L., & Levin, B. B. (2009). Leading 21st Century Schools: Harnessing Technology for Engagement and Achievement. CA: Corwin.
