EDLD+5370+Reflections+of+5362

.Self Assessment:

EDLD 5362 Information Systems Management was an interesting class that allowed me to hear another veteran teacher’s perspective on teaching with technology. Week one called for an interview with an instructor. I interviewed a teacher who had been teaching most of her adult life and was a couple of years away from retiring. I was able to get her insight about how she had seen technology change instruction in the classroom. I was also able to use the information to help evaluate my school district’s Student Information System.

Learn as a Learner:

There is always room for improvement in education. My way of improving instruction is obviously with technology. Before being enlightened by this master’s program I have to admit my idea of using technology was using my laptop to take attendance or showing a video. I truly didn’t know the meaning of making technology work for me. "Merely using Web-based materials in the classroom or assigning URLs for supplementary reading may not be an effective use of these materials" (Arsham, 2002, p. 9). Although this quote is nothing too surprising but it is one that speaks volumes. Using technology for instruction is a broad statement. Just because there is a technology presence in a classroom does not mean that it is being effectively used to enhance learning. The question of how to use it so instruction can be engaging and purposeful is what is going to make the difference. Assigning URLs for supplemental reading can be just as ineffective as teachers sitting at their desk while students are independently reading a textbook. They may or not be getting it. I hope to make more connections with students rather than be disconnected. Now, “ These teens find additional locations outside of school to connect online, even if they are not wired at their own home ” (Levin & Arafeh, 2002, p.i). Technology is a way of life for our students. I have learned to recognize that even if students don’t have internet at home that technology will be factored into their lives in one form another.

Life Long Learning Skills: The interview process was a nice approach to prompt students to explore the topic. It made it much more exciting to see things through another person’s eyes first hand rather than just read an article. I hope to apply this method of learning that can be applied to many situationst. The interview process also helped me give a well rounded evaluation of Irving’s Student Information System. I was not only able to learn about the software itself but hear views that my colleagues had about our SIS. This course allowed me to grow in an area that I was unfamiliar with. I am realizing how many teachers are in my shoes about being in touch with technology and realizing that it is not just for “techy” teachers. I learned that there must be a strong well managed user friendly system in place that will empower teachers to make a positive impact on student learning. The course has given me a more open mind to the use of technology to reach campus and district goals. "It has to be in line with the school's vision of where they want to be. We have a lot of great leaders who are not technologists, but they have an ability to look at technology as an enabler" (Sausner, 2003,P.2). You don't have to be super tech savvy to know that technology can enhance learning and bring effective communication for administrators, teachers, parents and students. A system should fulfill the vision and work to fulfill all aspects of making the best possible learning environment for all.

References: Arsham, H. (2002, March). Impact of the internet on learning and teaching. //USDLA Journal, 16.3.// Retrieved on August 6th, 2011 from @http://www.usdla.org/html/journal/MAR02_Issue/article01.html

Levin, D., & Arafeh, S. (2002). The digital disconnect. The widening gap between internet-savy students and their schools. //Pew Internet and American Life Project//. Retrieved on August 6th, 2011, from []

. Sausner, R. (2003, November). Making paperwork fulfilling. District Administrator. Retrieved on Agust 6th, 2011, 2011, from @http://www.districtadministration.com/viewarticle.aspx?articleid=103