Effective Technology Integration

As I reflect back on my most recent course, Effective Technology Integration into Lessons & Curriculum, the first thing that comes to mind is informative. We had some wonderful discussions in class regarding the use of flipped classrooms, fake news, project based learning (PBL), grant writing, and the likes in the classroom. The discussions would usually start off with, 'yes we think it is a good idea to use in class', but then after further discussion and more probing questions, the class typically circled back to 'boy that will take a lot of time', 'I wish I could do this in my class', 'I started using some of this in my class, etc.' There were some fantastic tech tools shared as well as tips for discussing managing technology in the classroom.

The two most challenging assignments for me were designing a PBL lesson and grant writing. Both of these took quite a bit of time to complete; however, in the end it was a great learning experience. Being student-centered, I feel students will find PBL lessons more enjoyable and satisfying. As for grant writing, this is something I have never done before and was pleasantly surprised of the amount of sources out there willing to give money to education. Some important factors to keep in mind when grant writing are establishing a well-defined plan and setting goals and objectives for the money being applied for.

I think it would be great to perhaps visit other districts or schools where they are effectively using PBL at the elementary level. I definitely see the benefits in using PBL and writing grants; however, I suppose I am just too hesitant and reserved to use try this in fear of  not knowing how to implement them.

I look forward to continuing the journey towards my Tech Specialist Endorsement. Maybe my reservation for grant writing and PBL in the classroom will subside as I gain more knowledge and understanding of the tech resources. The face-to-face meetings in class with my colleagues and professor have proved invaluable for my technology integration into lessons and curriculum.