I think that I have come a long way in learning and using technology. Ten years ago I was still half afraid to try much on the computer and didn't even have an email address. At the time my husband and oldest daughter were always using the computer so it was easy for me to stay busy doing other things. When I started school 5 years ago that all changed, and little by little I have added to my repertoire of computer skills. I even have a Facebook profile and my 13 year old taught me how to scan some old photos so I could post them; a testament to the technology learning of young children.
As far as being a great teacher I realize that I still have a ways to go. I am fairly proficient at communicating using technology, and have minimal experience with powerpoint. I use microsoft word a lot and bought microsoft excel for my new lap top, which I hope to start using more. I had to use microsoft excel to do graphs for my science class last semester and really could not grasp how to use the programs much at all. Fortunately we worked in groups, so I had help.
I am pleased with the things that I am learning in this class such as voicethread, and know that I will make use of this learning in my classroom. I plan to keep experimenting with new things and to stay connected so that I can be abreast the newest and most efficient types of technology and learn the best ways to incorporate them into the classroom. I don't feel that to be a great teacher that I have to know the latest and greatest all the time, but I think it is important to learn about better more efficient technology. I think for me the most important thing is learning a type of technology well enough to feel confident. My weakness is that I tend to be very intimidated by technology and am afraid to try new things. So for me to become a great teacher, I need to learn a few things very well and then build on that knowledge. My strength is that I have forced myself to learn and to try new things even when I feel intimidated, and for that I am proud of myself.
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Wow! It sounds like you've come far in exploring the various uses of technology. :) I remember not having any computer experience, until middle school, but we didn't have a home computer until high school; just an old laptop that was quickly outdated and my parents didn't have a whole lot of experience with it either. I too have enjoyed the exposure to the different types of technology, once I have gotten past my initial uncertainty of the unknown. Perhaps that's the hardest thing to overcome, the fear of the unknown; as long as we're willing to try, and use the resource of the more knowledgable, then succeed we shall! :)
ReplyDeleteYou are such an encouragement to me, Virginia! If you can do it, so can I!!!! Keep up the good work and thank you for being willing to lead us into this battle!
ReplyDeleteThank-you Clarissa! I can't say that I am leading anyone, but we can all certainly learn together and from each other!
ReplyDeleteLike me, you are a digital immigrant. You immigrated maybe a decade after I did.
ReplyDeleteLearning to experiment and try new things is part of the tech game. And, if we continue to be brave, our students can give us lots of help.