Reflection Week 8 Class 3

I am finishing my third course at Walden University. Understanding the Impact of Technology on Education, Work, and Society opened my eyes to the many untapped technologies that are available to me in Education. Three of these technologies are wikis, blogs, and podcasts. These three things have helped me create a more student-based atmosphere in my classroom.
I always knew that technology would continue to play an increased role in education. This class strengthened my resolve to embrace new technologies and use them in my classroom. I am already having my students create their own class wiki page.
The cool thing about technology and education is that the students already have a base knowledge of the technology. Students are eager to use it and will take a leadership role in it if given the chance. An example of this student centered learning occurred just last week in my class. When making a class wiki, I had students choose a "Project Manager" from their class. The Project Manager then asked their peers how the wiki should be designed and then created it. My students made all of the decisions about the project. As a result, the students had ownership in the project and did a really good job.
I can continue to expand my knowledge of new technologies by simple looking for them. There are dozens of ideas and applications available to educators on the web. All I have to do is search them out and use the ones I feel will help my students.
One goal that I have set for myself is to include one technology lesson each quarter in my classes. This should be easy over the course of the next few years as I will continue to have fresh, new ideas introduced to me from this program. I have found this program to be very helpful in that regard.
Another goal I have set for myself is to make a presentation to the other teachers in my district about technology and how it can help them in their classes. I already have a base knowledge and an administration that is willing to support me. All I will have to do is plan a talk and get it on the agenda for one of our staff development days.
Winner