Finding Resources for my GAME Plan

     In order to meet the goals from my GAME plan, I will need to access print and web sources regarding technology integration into my content area, language arts.  Additionally, I will need to use my colleagues as a resource as I embark on this technological journey.  Dr. Ertmer states that a supportive culture where your colleagues are willing to support you, work with you, and defend the risks you take using technology is vital to the successful implementation of technology into a classroom (Laureate Education, Inc., 2013).  If my GAME plan is to be successful, I will need to lean on my peers.

     Cennamo, Ross and Ertmer's textbook will, and already has, provided me with great insights into incorporating technology into the classroom.  I have already discovered technology tools that I can use, such as digital storytelling.  Along with the textbook, the Internet will be a great asset.  The CAST website has already provided me with valuable ideas for improving my use of technology.  One source I found on the CAST website that interested I will explore is Kerproof Teacher's Page.  This website helps students use media to communicate their ideas in multiple ways.

     While the resources print and web sources will prove important as I put my GAME plan into action, my colleagues will be my most valuable resource.  My building's media specialist and a technology teacher have already provided me with ideas for using digital sources and bringing viable technology into my classroom.  I will continue to ask for their support as I move through my plan.

Resources

Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2013). Enriching content area learning experiences with technology: Part 1. [Video Webcast]. Retrieved at https://class.waldenu.edu

My G.A.M.E. Plan

     It is imperative that educators integrate technology into their curriculum in the 21^st century classroom.  In order to be successful in this endeavor, teachers need to be knowledgeable, confident, have strong beliefs, and work in a supportive culture (Laureate Education, Inc., 2013).  Teachers need to know when and how to use technological tools and have the confidence to not always know the answer.  In order to become a teacher who can be successful with the integration of technology, I need a G.A.M.E. plan.

Goals – My goal is to become more competent in two NETS-T standards.  The two standards I wish to address are 2.a. and 2.c.  2.a. states that teachers “design or adapt relevant learning experiences that incorporate digital tools and resources to promote student learning and creativity” (ISTE NETS-T).  2.c. states that teachers “customize and personalize learning activities to address students’ diverse learning styles, working strategies, and abilities using digital tools and resources.

Action – In order to meet my goals, I will need to seek out information regarding technological tools that fit well with my content standards.  Technology should not be forced.  Instead, it should enhance a lesson or unit (Laureate Education, Inc., 2013). I will gather plenty of ideas from this course, but I will need to conduct my own independent research regarding tools as well.  Additionally, I will need to learn more about my students’ diverse learning styles in order to choose my strategies wisely.

Monitor – I will need to monitor my progress and make adjustments as I navigate through unfamiliar technology programs and tools.  I plan to use my blog in this course to take monitoring notes on my own progress.  In addition to my blog, I will use a reflective journal to keep notes on my instructional successes and failures.

Evaluation – To evaluate my progress in designing lessons with technology tools and personalizing them for my students, I will use my blog and reflective journal to practice self-awareness of my instruction.  Being a self-aware instructor is an important element in professional growth (Cennamo, Ross, & Ertmer, 2009).  Additionally, I will use assessment data to inform me of the success of my instruction with technology.

References

Cennamo, K. Ross, J., Ertmer, P. (2009). Technology integration for meaningful classroom use: A standards-based approach. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth, Cengage Learning.

Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2013). Enriching content area learning experiences with technology: Part 1. [Video Webcast]. Retrieved from https:// class.waldenu.edu

My first post

I cannot believe this is the first time I have tried blogging.  I am excited to teach this to my students.