230

When I was told that I would be learning how to integrate technology into the classroom by including it into the curriculum, I was interested but skeptical. Skeptical because I believed that included technology into the classroom would distract students and didn’t see how a technology-based learning environment could be constructive, but before I can judge I had to educate myself as well as open my mind to new ideas/theories and this is what I learned.

       I was first introduced to the technology Integration matrix, which is a grid that guides me through the levels of technology integration curriculum. Levels like, entry, adoption, adaptation, infusion, and transformation. The technology integration matrix also educated me on the characteristics of a proper technology learning environment. I learned a learning environment should be active, collaborative, constructive, authentic, and goal directed. This helped me understand that technology is only beneficial if I as an educator structure my lessons with theories and points labeled in the matrix to ensure high level education to my students.  

       Next,  I was introduced to a variety of tech tools like Tinkercad, Kahoot, powtoon and many more, I started to use them with my own students at an after-school program I teach at. My favorite technology tool so far would have to be tinkercad which is a 3D printing modeling tool. This tool is my personal favorite because it makes your teaching topic come alive, your learning topic is now visible and physical which then allows students to maybe make connections they couldn’t make before. I then realized that these tools give me a limitless amount of resources to facilitate engaging lessons in fresh new innovative ways. Students are actively engaged in using technology as a tool rather than passively receiving information. I believe now that technology can be constructive. Students can use an introduced tech tool to build on understanding rather than just trying to retain information. More importantly I’ve come to realize with the use of technology my lessons are more authentic and relatable which can connect to real life issues therefore giving students an opportunity to use technology tools to try and solve these real world issues.

During the course of the semester I began to notice and understand the difference between the role technology plays in education and the role an educator plays in education. The technology is just the resource needed to facilitate and present information, but it’s the educators job to engage and challenge students in an active learning environment. I also learned different strategies and tips to challenge my students to think critically as well as build on their understanding of the topic. This is possible with affective questioning, probing, and many more. This requires the student to go beyond the first response and think deeper about their next response, alternately building a deeper understanding of the lesson.

I plan to continue to incorporate these strategies throughout my teaching career. I feel like this will help me better facilitate my lessons and engage my students in active learning. I will also continue to incorporate technology into my lesson. As a future physical education teacher I plan to use technology to improve the overall health of my students as well as ensuring my students understand the importance of their physical health/fitness. Whether it is using technology to monitor heart rate during exercise or using tinkercad to create 3D lungs to give students a visual of a respiratory organ and how it relates to cardio, I will continue to integrate technology to ensure a quality education. Overall I believe I grew a lot during this semester and on the right path to becoming an authentic, innovative educator.