Module+1+Reflection

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How has your knowledge of technology standards changed after this module? Reflect on your own use of technology standards in your classroom and personal use.

__**Describe:**__ For this module, I was to read the __National Educational Technology Standards__ handbook as well as the Introduction and first chapter of __ISTE’s Technology Facilitation and Leadership Standards__ book.

__**Impact:**__ Overwhelming does not begin to explain how I feel after this first introduction to the technology standards! There is so much information to process that I am not sure where to begin. I thought I was somewhat proficient when it came to technology use and implementation in my everyday teaching. However, after reading the material, I feel like I am behind. I possess the basic competencies discussed in Chapter 1 of the __ISTE’s Technology Facilitation and Leadership Standards__ book, but I don’t use technology as a tool to inspire creative thinking, develop proper problem solving skills, personalize learning activities for diverse learning styles or allow students to pursue individual curiosities on a regular basis. Even though I use the same amount, if not more technology than most of my colleagues, I think I use technology at a basic level that is uniform for all students. I teach at a very small school, but I feel as if we have a fair amount of technology available for use. I am just unsure how to go about integrating it into my lessons at a higher level. I am afraid of “going outside the box” and possibly making a mistake when trying something new. I always tell my students, “I don’t care if you make a mistake. All I care about is that you are trying your best.” I guess I need to start taking my own advice. I did not know standards even existed for students and teachers in regards to technology. I know my science content standards like the back of my hand right now, but I remember my first year teaching I had to go over the content repeatedly before teaching it to the students. Talk about an overwhelming experience! At my first “glance” the technology standards seemed very intimidating. As I continued to read and become familiar with them, I realized they are manageable and attainable. I even found a few that I already implement. I know this is going to be a challenging learning experience, but I am ready to accept the challenge of becoming proficient in the world of technology. I want to become a teacher who is confident in all aspects of my field. After studying this new content, I realize that technology is a major contributor to student and teacher success. It is going to open many doors for me as I continue on my journey to better myself as an educator.

__**Intent:**__ I intend to use these standards to further enhance my daily lessons. I want to incorporate more technology as much as possible into my curriculum. I also want to learn how to use new digital tools so that I can reach ALL of my students, spark creative thinking and help them develop problem-solving skills so they will experience more success in my classroom as well as in real life. I know this is not going to be a task that is achieved overnight. I would like to move from the beginning and developing levels of the standards to the proficient level. We just got iPads in my end of the building. I would really like to develop a project for my students that will help them prepare for the Ohio Achievement Assessment.