2nd reflection - Response to prompts

1. Describe one significant idea or issue that has arisen for you, as you were engaging in the topics during Learning Experiences #1 and #2

Something that has really stood out in my mind is the use of Web 2.0 tools.  I have been using them for the last couple of years and have been trying to incorporate even more of them into my classroom, or virtual classroom. I am seeing this more now as a technology for the special needs student as well.  Before I really just thought it was engaging and fun for kids.  I am now seeing it as more of an "assistive technology", not perhaps like dragon, but equally as useful and more importantly, inclusive. 

2.Elaborate on how specific resources, ideas or experiences in the Learning Experiences have contributed to your learning. e.g. reading material, course activities etc.

Again I want to touch on the Web 2.0 tools.  There are so many useful things out there that I either didn't realize existed or I just hadn't had the confidence to jump right into it.  Such as Edmodo.  I have attempted to incorporate it into my class and have had some pretty great results so far and I still have much to learn.  

3. Share how your participation in the discussion forums have contributed to your learning and connect this to your understanding of the Standards of Practice for the Teaching Profession.

As a result of discussion with my "classmates" I can say that my "ongoing professional learning" has been the area I have gotten the most out of.  Whether it be specific lesson plans and ideas or just methods of using a particular tool, the discussion forum is key in this learning to connect with others and see what they are doing.  Essentially one can tweak any ideas and make them their own, creating a best practice. 

4. Discuss any outstanding questions and the steps you may take to further explore your interests as part of your learning in the course.

What I am still contemplating is my school plan.  I am wondering how to get others involved and spread the technological ideals throughout our school.  We have a pretty comprehensive School Improvement Plan and each division has some great things going.  I wonder how I can influence them to use more technology and bring the whole school on board.

LE #2 Reflection

"Necessary for some  - Good for all"

I've used this a number of times in my posts for our course, or in response to others posts.  The web tools that are available out there, or other software for that matter, are just that, good for all students.  Students  are engaged and enjoying lessons and it fits so well with differentiated instruction tool.

Often times students that have their own computers are reluctant to use them for tasks where other students are not using computers.  They express that they do not want to be centered out, and have other kids know that they "have" to use the computer.  When all the students are using the computers then its no trouble for those who need it.

I often refer back to Mangahigh, which is an incredible math website, because it is a perfect example of our heading at the top.  Every student can be on the computer and no one feels centered out.  However, I can assign different levels of a strand for each student if necessary or different achievement levels of the same task.  No one needs to know any different.  Students are excited about it and the overwhelming majority feel engaged and successful.

To have them all working away on their own technology is indeed, necessary for some, good for all!