Week 12 Final Reflections

I am glad this quarter has finally come to an end. I really enjoyed learning from all of you guys. I can honestly say that this course has provided me with a lot of knowledge in which I can actually use. The technologies discussed were both relevant to my teaching and to my personal learning. For example, I learned of a phenomenal book mark called del.icio.us in which I can save all the articles and websites I view. This is better than the paper trail I have been collecting since I started this program. I enjoyed blogging and will continue to do so because, even if no one else sees my blogs, it helps me reflect on meaningful events in my life and in the classroom. I have introduced a few of my students to blogging and they love it. I guess the most meaningful experience I gained from this class is that these new emerging technologies are becoming more teacher friendly than ever. They allow teachers to use constructivist strategies for teaching and learning such as collaboration and active engagement. All of which can be done through software such as wikis, blogs, game simulations, and more.

Forgive me, but I have to share the following news with you guys because I never heard of this technology before. A few weeks ago we discussed ways in which schools can ensure that students are using the Internet effectively. Well, last weekend I worked Saturday school at one of our local high schools and the students had to go into the computer lab to work on one of the assigned learning websites such as Compasslearning. The lab was huge so I was not able to see what all the students were doing at once. However, a media specialist came in and informed me that I could use the software installed on the teacher's computer called SynchronEyes to view everyone's computer screen at once. I was excited about this new technology because it enabled me to monitor the browsing and activities of each student. It also enabled me to send a chat or a message to anyone who needed help or was off task. I happened to find a student using My Space and I was able to zone in on only her computer and sent her a direct message telling her to get back to one of the learning sites she was supposed to be on. She was shocked that I could do this and immediately went back to work. The software includes other features; the teacher can take pictures of the webpage being viewed by students and offer assistance to anyone that may be struggling. All this is done in a discreet manner without upsetting the entire lab.

I have enjoyed chatting and reading the blogs of all of you. I wish you luck in the rest of your courses and any future endeavors. May we be be virtual classmates again or meet at a residency!

Best regards,
Denise