Reflection #20

EDU 6384 has been very beneficial in many ways as an educator, a student and a mother. This was my first online course, and it was very difficult to get used to learning pretty much on my own, but at the same time it was very convenient because I was able to do it all at home. Therefore, it had its pros and cons.
The book was very informational and helpful. I learned so many ways of integrating technology, and new websites that I could use in the classroom. The discussion posting were also very helpful. I was able to learn from my classmates, and steel some technology ideas to use in my class. Something that I took from the book, and have already started to use is E-Pals. My students have enjoyed using this site, and so have I. They are now able to write letters to me through E-Pals versus me having to take their journals home on the weekends.
This course has enhanced my way of thinking of technology. I thought my campus was pretty advanced in the area of technology, but there is still so much to learn about it. After being in this course, I have really reflected on my ways of integrating technology in class. I really need to step it up with technology. There are so many new things out there for students, including Assistive Technology. This class has shown me that I need to be better equipped to be able to integrate technology in class.
I really enjoyed creating a Blog for the first time. I have also created a Blog for the classroom for my students to see. My Blog helped me reflect on me integrating technology in class. I plan on creating a personal blog as well to write about personal things.
The best part was the driving time! I was able to do it all from home, and dedicate more time to my family duties.
Now to the things that didn’t work out as great for me…
I had difficult time learning on my own. For example: the database and excel assignments were my worst. After sitting for hours listening to the tutorials, I still struggled with these assignments. This is where I needed to sit in a classroom, and learn step by step.
The postings on Blackboard were not difficult. The only problem I had in this area was waiting for others to post so that I could have any discussions. I constantly had to check Blackboard to check when people had posted so that I could reply back. Another issue in this area is that when a discussion had to be posted based on the Chapter questions, I felt like the answers of classmates were very repetitive making it hard to respond if you were one of the last ones to respond to the answers.
Overall, this course was a great one! I would recommend this course to a person that is always on the go, and wants to save driving time. Plus, it offers so many new ways of learning how to integrate technology in the classrooms, and help you be up to date with some of the new TECH items, and sites to use.