Final Reflection of 6714

Throughout this course, I have learned some amazing tools to aide me in differentiating my daily lessons. I have learned how to use a social networking source to keep me in contact with my colleagues.

I have learned how to communicate with my classmates using a social networking tool called Google Groups. By using this network, it enables me to keep in constant contact with fellow educators and upload / share information relevant to our careers. The network will always have the information available and allow for me to go back to the network to get the information when it is needed. I have never used a tool such a social networking site like Google Groups. I find it user friendly and I will continue to use this even when the course comes to an end. I believe that using this will enable me to be up to date with new and improving technologies that other professionals have worked for them or are looking for help to plan a learning experience.

Universal Design for Learning are basic learning principles that describe how to teach, ways to teach, and how to make what you teach stick. I was very unfamiliar with the exact meaning of what UDL was and the principles that it included. UDL is the what, how, and why of learning. By using the social networking tool, UDL and technology go hand in hand. Integrating various technologies applicable to your curriculum will give your students a better chance at learning the material. Integration of technology will allow for all students the chance for an equal opportunity for education.

One of the first things that I will do with my classroom is create an environment where my students feel comfortable with working with computers. I will show my students the basics when it comes to using a computer and the proper ways to take care of them. I think that if a student knows how to use it and the proper techniques they will feel more inclined to want to use it for daily activities. I will explain and create a social network website with my students. I am going to use a social networking site that is acceptable with my district so I can share important things with my students. I believe that it will give my students a chance to express their true feelings and enable all of them to participate no matter what they think. It gives them a voice and a way to feel comfortable. I also think that by teaching like this, it will only help prepare them for their futures, using 21st century technologies.

With the 21st century bringing unexpected improvements to the internet and technology advancements, the limits are endless when it comes to discovering and creating lesson plans. Technology helps create exciting and motivating lessons to get your students excited to learn.