Final Blog Reflection

Throughout my participation in IT 365, I have learned a lot of beneficial things. I have found numerous websites I can use for my future classroom. I have learned how to create things as well. Starting off the first day with blog post, I had no idea what I had in store to learn. But, as I began this Technology journey, I have found out that I can do so much when I incorporate technology. I will definitely bring technology into my classroom lessons in the future.
I have always been pretty good with technology. So, when it came to using the computer, I was pretty much on track with the instructor. I love the idea of creating a webpage for my classroom. This is a wonderful way to share with other teachers, parents, and students my lessons and ideas. On a teacher website, you can include information about yourself, explain how you became a teacher, and what your intentions are for your classroom. A website can also include a parents page with information all parents are likely to want to know; such as, links to important sites, lesson plans, lunch menus for the week, school calendar, and important reminders. A student’s page is also helpful. A student’s page can include websites in that help students with new concepts they are learning in class. It can include daily homework assignments and reminders of upcoming test and assignments. It also is a great way for students and parents to contact you out of the classroom setting; by setting up a way teachers can e-mail you or post a private comment. This was my favorite thing we did in class. I even set up an e-mail for my Pre-K Children’s Choir for church! They love it!
As a TeachUp! Intern for the Digital Opportunity Trust Program, I am designed to go into two schools and help to incorporate technology into their classrooms. Being able to attend IT 365 every week made me very excited, because I looked forward to learning new things to tell other teachers! Throughout my job I work with teachers on the Promethean Boards and create flipcharts for their interactive lessons. I also have shown many teachers surveymonkey.com – which is an online program individuals can use to create surveys for other teachers, parents, students, etc. I have observed through the computer labs that children love to learn through online games. At one of my schools a huge priority is allowing students to use an online site called StudyIsland. I think this is wonderful, because not only are children learning new concepts and quizzing themselves while having fun, they are using technology in the process!
Technology has become a huge part of our every day lives. Children seem to learn so much better when technology is incorporated into their lessons. I think using technology in the classroom gains children’s attention. Interactive lessons help students to want to participate in lessons because all children want to draw or write on the Promethean board. Technology advanced every day and I hope to use much of what I have learned in IT 365 to benefit my future classroom!