EDUC 6713 Reflection

My game plan forced me to take the leap into blogging.  It took several weeks, but I did it.  My program now has a website and my upper level students have blogs/online portfolios set up.  This has changed the way students reflect and I like it. 

 

Throughout the process I learned the process of working with the district to try to get a site unblocked.  I also engaged in research for alternatives.  Weebly never worked.  I had to scrap the website I created; however, I was introduced to wordpress.  I knew it would be a bit more challenging, but I got used to it.  The students jumped right on it.  This new process is moving my instructional practice from paper based to digital.  Students are writing more for their self-assessments and appreciate that they can share their work with their family and friends.  Before, it was a challenge to get them to write complete sentences on their forms.  Now, I don’t have that issue.  I even get deeper and more meaningful responses.  It is still the honeymoon phase, but students are raving about the change.  

Based on my GAME plan, I have begun to move other areas of my classroom digitally.  For example, the equipment and classroom sign-out sheets are now a google doc spreadsheet.  I used QR codes to post by the equipment and near the door.  Now students scan the code and fill out the simple form.  They aren’t as keen on this change.  I hope they get used to it.  

As for this class, many of the things we learned about I already do.  I guess it is expected in a Career and Technology Education course.  My classroom already used problem-based learning, online collaboration, and digital storytelling.  These elements are required to fulfill the standards.  One thing that helped was the GAME plan.  I was forced to make a change I was cautious of-creating a program specific website and students blogs.  I am glad I took the chance.  Because of the changes, I have written a grant to get 8 more iPads.  I hope to be paperless next year; meaning, everything will be done digitally.  Crazy scary, but exhilarating at the same time.