Reflection on Teaching and Learning with Technology

Coming into this class, I expected to leave with the idea that technology is always the answer in the classroom in order to make more interesting lessons, greater communication with students, and more efficient learning time. Rather than come away with the idea that more is always better, I am now able to see technology as a tool and a support, instead of a replacement for the quality teacher-student interaction that is a crucial part of any classroom environment. I have also learned that there are good ways to use technology in the classroom and bad ways. Finding the balance of good and bad with technology is challenging, and something with which I am still struggling. In addition, I have learned to never be afraid to explore technology and see if it could be a useful classroom tool. This class has shown me that you never know how much you can accomplish with technology until you try. In the future, I won't be afraid to sit down and really dive into a piece of technology and see if it would fit in my classroom.

I will definitely attempt to use more technology in the classroom now that I've taken this course and learned so much from it. Previously, technology felt like more of a replacement for the teacher. Now, I see that I can work with the technology to supplement my teaching in order to give students more learning opportunities than I could provide on my own. Many times, educators try to keep technology out of the classroom as much as possible, but after seeing how valuable it can be to have technology in the classroom I would think twice before asking students to refrain from bringing technology in. I have even seen how cell phones can be a valuable educational tool in the classroom. Overall, I am definitely going to bring more technology into the classroom and work with students to use the technology to which they have access more effectively.

My future goals from this class are to find that happy medium between technology overload and no technology at all. I do not want to rely on technology to teach the lesson for me, but I also do not want to deprive my students of the opportunities that can be reached through technology. I hope to allow my students to have fun with the tools I give them while enjoying learning together.