Week+Three

 Week 3 – Reflection One of the most interesting and eye opening experiences of week three were the Digital Youth Portraits of Luis and Cameron. Luis is a great inspiration to all learners, most of all first and second generation immigrants to the United States and its public school systems. Luis is a shining example of how technology helps level the educational playing field. Luis used technology as he puts it, “I enjoy using technology because it is a better way to connect with family, friends, improve studies, find out information and use that information to help others.” Cameron is also a great inspiration to all learners, most of all students who have the technology available and want to use it to its full potential. Cameron cuts right to it by saying “I love technology”. He is creating movies and teaching adults technology while in the sixth grade. He is a very impressive young man that many of our students can use technology as a role model. These two individuals come from very different backgrounds yet by using the tools of technology they are both becoming expert and lifelong learners. [] []  Another good experience in week three was quite a surprise. At first the UDL is difficult to grasp. However, after completing the CAST UDL lesson and book builder assignments the implications and usefulness of the tool made sense. In particular the book builder program captured my attention. I thought of all the applications, possibilities, and learning interests it could stimulate. The project itself is a wonderful task that incorporates many technology standards and uses including, research, digital graphics, reading comprehension, main idea, and several more. I do think the most exciting element in the creation of electronic books, is the publishing and sharing aspect that will most appeal to students. [] []