Final+AssessmentCourse+Reflection

Responses to five prompts in order the reflect on the course
 I envisioned several outcomes for this class including, **better understanding of learning theories as they relate to technology, learning about new technology tools for problem solving, and improving my communication through technology**. I believe I achieved those outcomes and more. I realize with practice and teaching to others, I will develop these skills to a higher level. I believe this course has allowed me to build on my technology foundations for future success. The actual course outcomes not only aligned with what I envisioned, but went beyond my expectations. First, my understanding improved by learning about three major theories, constructivism, connectivism, and cyborg technologies. I enjoyed them all but increasing human capacity and skill through cyborg technology was especially fascinating. Next, I was able to //plan, design, and create effective learning environments,// for problem solving using the CAST website tools and by the effort and success of the group collaborative. Finally, I improved my skills to //communicate the results in a variety of formats for diverse learners.// Through the practice and use of collaborations tools such as Google Docs, wikis, and blogs, I believe effect communication formats for wide audiences. Again I envisioned several outcomes for this class including, better understanding of learning theories as they relate to technology, learning about new technology tools for problem solving, and improving my communication through technology and believe I was successful in accomplishing these.
 * Response 1**

I achieved the course out comes to a point that I feel **open minded to many theories, comfortable with several technology tools, and confident with my communication skills**. I believe as a current Junior High teacher most outcomes are and can be relevant in my work. The most of the theories studied that is relevant to my work currently is CAST’s Universal Design for Learning. I am better prepared to present, communicate, modify, and assess the different needs of the diverse students I teach. Secondly, the constructivism theory has shown me the importance of connecting students to their prior knowledge and interests to motivate learning. Additionally, I feel much more comfortable with using technology tools. From simply navigating through the course software, to viewing videos, creating lesson plans and projects, and viewing and learning about different thing that work for other educators, I will bring these to the classroom proving their relevance in teaching. In addition, I have improved my communication skills to an extent that will enable me to correspond and collaborate effectively with others. The future of education depends on effective communication between all stakeholders and I have begun to realize the relevance of this. These outcomes are not only relevant to the work I currently in my school but I am sure they will be relevant in the leadership roles of my future. Exposure to new theories, being at ease with technology tools, and communicating effectively with others are important skill that will allow me to compete in the 21st century.
 * Response 2**


 * Response 3**

All course outcomes were achieved. However, some specific outcomes need more **focus, practice, and evaluation**, specifically the application of several **products, theories, and lesson plans**. Only a lack of time has prevented me from achieving these outcomes. The products that were introduced to me this course like Book Builder, have great possibilities. Only a lack of time prevented me from discovering their full potential. In the near future, I will be able to use many of the products presented in my actual 7th grade class. The theories of learning discussed earlier must be studied and tested in actual learning situations to prove their worth. For example the continuous I look forward to using connectivism ideas to teach students. The process of learning from interactions with others on external networks needs time to be designed a used in a classroom situation. Additionally, although I had the opportunity to develop lesson plans I need time to implement them. I enjoyed the Lesson Builder from CAST and look forward to using it to plan future lessons. Some outcomes need more attention, application, and testing. Specifically the application of several products, theories, and lesson plans. Only a lack of time preventing me from achieving some outcomes.

I was successful in completing the course assignments. I achieved success in both the **collaborative and individual work by using several useful technology tools combined with effort.** A reason for the success of the group collaboration was the availability and use of various technologies. Most importantly through Googe Documents and course wikis all group members were able to contribute to the project with the conveince of 24/7 access and real-time editing and posting. The World Wide Web allowed for unlimited resources. Animation and video software enabled the creation of examples and tutorials. In addition, open source software assisted in rubric creation (RubiStar), lesson plan development (Lesson Builder), and project design (Book Builder) that guided the process. Another reason for the collaboration success was the effort put forth by the group. The group put forth effort in the establishment of roles and responsibilities. From the resoucess of the first week’s assignment, we began to realize the relationship between effort and achievement. I believe an important reason for my success with the individual work comes down to the availability of technology tools. This course is a good example of how quality, timely, and engaging learning can be successful outside of the tradition educational setting. I was able to visit family out of town during a holiday all the while staying current with the responsibility of the course. Resources and communication is an internet connection away, anytime. Another important reason for the success of my individual work is the effort that was spends understanding the concepts and theories presented. The ability to replay videos, create sample projects on websites, and access all the course material never limits the effort put forth. I was successful in completing the course assignments. I achieved success in both the collaborative and individual work by using several useful technology tools combined with effort.
 * Response 4**


 * Response 5**

I learned several things about myself from this course. Most of all my internal reflection revealed that the **theories of UDL** really hit home with me. The fact that learning is as distinctive as our DNA opens my eyes to the diversity that exists among students. I believe I will have more patience and understanding for all students from the IDEA to the Gifted and Talented kids, I teach. What I learned about my technology was the fact that the more learn about technology, the more I need to keep learning and keep up with the latest tools, techniques, and knowledge. My technology seems to be above average with much room for improvement. My leadership skill was tested during this course when I successfully administrated technology training for a group of teachers. I picked the UDL model, specifically Book Builder to inspire the teachers. I was able to set an agenda, prepare a sample project, and follow up with the training. Finally, attitudes, many of the “Big Thinkers” are hard to deny or argue. They have not inspired myself but I am sure many others. Overall, my attitude is the, Yes we need to rethink our entire educational philosophy that comes out of the industrial revolution. The problem is that although the elephant is in the room many people have become comfortable with its size and smell.

