From+my+heart

 This was the most challenging class I had this semester for two reasons. Although I was not necessarily a luddite when I began this class, all of the technology we used was new to me. The computer seemed like something that was there to frustrate me or present obstacles. I would always pester my husband to fix any problems my inexperience created. However, the intensive time I have spent creating my projects forced me to become familiar with the computer. I would work on projects while my husband was at work and this made it necessary for me to solve my own problems. An example of this is the first time I used Audacity by myself. I could not get it to record. I solved this problem by searching a forum. I had never done this before and it made me feel empowered. Later in the semester, I used a forum to figure out how to solve issues formatting my bibliography for my history class. Through the technology we used, I learned a new self-reliance in areas where I do not naturally excel. I now have the self-confidence to view a computer as a toll and not an enemy out to get me.  Another aspect of this class that I found challenging was the amount of thought and creativity it required. This was the first time I wrote a unit of instruction or lesson plans. However, in other classes I found it easy to connect different subject matters together, so I assumed writing units and lesson plans would come easily to me. I was wrong. It is hard work and requires a lot of thought to make a cohesive unit. When I finally figured out a way to resolve my assignment within my unit, the sense of victory and accomplishment I felt was overwhelming. Creating my unit taught me the demands of satisfying multiple needs within one product. I had to complete the assignment and make it fit with my unit's objectives and outcomes. I think this prepares me for the challenges of meeting the needs of a varied student population. I am most proud of this accomplishment. I learned I could take one lesson and make it serve a variety of purposes if I thought creatively.  As a twenty-first century educator, I think using technology is essential. After all, I need to prepare my students for success outside of academia. However, I will not necessarily use technology for every assignment. I think many of the web 2.0 applications are better suited for larger projects because they can be more time consuming. I know that I will use a wiki for my class, so that parents can more easily be involved in their child's education. I also think that having this forum to display finished projects will help motivate students. Also, I intend to purchase a digital video recorder because I loved seeing videos that students created on youtube. My biggest concern about using technology is keeping abreast of new technology. How do I know when my technological tools have become obsolete? I will attend any professional development classes associated with technology, but I do not know what will be available. Part of my breaks will be spent researching new tools to keep my current because I want my students to succeed in a world where technology is so prevalent.  What I most want to do for my students is to activate their desire to learn. I love the feeling of accomplishment I get when I finally understand a new concept. I'm excited to help my students to achieve that "AHA!" moment. What I am most worried about is being one of those teachers that have a negative impact on students' desire to learn. We all had a teacher that made us disconnect somewhere in our past. Did those teachers realize that they were negatively impacting their students? Will I recognize if I am ineffective? This is a scary question because teaching is a huge responsibility. A teacher has so much power to help or harm a student. I want to be objective about my performance and humble enough to seek advice if my methods are not working. As a teacher, I will bring a real commitment to engage all students and inspire a love of learning in them.