As the semester comes to an end and so does Block 1, a lot can be taken away, especially from EDU 314. Throughout the course new skills have been built, and old ones reinforced and put to use.
Through the course I have had many new experiences to work with. One thing is creating an entire web page of my best work from EDU 314. From the beginning when I was told to create a web page I though how I would do this, considering I had never done this. I can now check making a web page off my list of things I don’t know how to do. From this whole experience I have become much more comfortable with the Microsoft word program. I used it so much, along with power point, and the publisher program. I am also very comfortable with Nvu the web page creator. I feel that I could go into a classroom and teach how to use this and all the features that are with it. I like the fact that I am able to go to the program and create links, add pictures and text without help from someone else. I am able to be very independent when working with these programs now.
I feel that this technology course helped to learn new skills that will be important in the future and with teaching. With the age of learning becoming centered on technology it becomes important for teacher new and old to lean, so they are keeping with advances. This course taught me that when I become a teacher to use the technology and programs that were taught to us in our classroom. Allow adjustments and branch off away from text books and allow technology to be adapted when possible.
Through the course there have been frustrations with the web page. I had some struggles trying to get links and images to work. That was part of the experience. I was able to work through them and fix the problems. I very seldom asked for help, I like to teach myself because I find that is the best way to learn. The experience of me teaching myself allowed me to create a web page that I am very proud of.
When working with groups I found it also very frustrating. I would rather do the work myself than rely on others to do it. It was very hard to get group members on the same page and get all our information together, and linked properly, although in the end I think the group work was a good experience and allowed me to accept help from others. I think working in groups can be very useful. You need to get opinions and help from others. Getting different opinions, and perspectives will in the end teach yourself.
Having older students do group work like done in class, is a good way to teach each other. If someone does not know something, others in the group can help and teach. It is always a learning experience with technology in the classroom