Demonstrate the understanding of how technologies can effectively promote student learning

Throughout this course, we have definitely demonstrated an understanding of how technologies can effectively promote student learning.  For example, our Literature Reviews were largely centered around the use of technology in the classroom.  I watched a video called, Digital Storytelling using the iPad by Sam Gliksman.  It promoted the use of iPads in the classroom through their use of various Apps centered around Digital Storytelling.  Students would be able to use the Apps to create Postcards, Lifecards, Videos, Photo Projects, etc.  These Apps are great methods by which students can create some sort of Digital Storytelling project.

    Evaluate and use a variety of current technologies to enhance content instruction and to advance students’ technological literacy

In this class, we have evaluated and used numerous technologies so far.  These will definitely enhance content instruction and advance our students’ technological literacy throughout their school career. We were required to review and dissect two videos about technology in the 21^st century; which were: Growing Up Online and Distracted by Everything, the Digital Nation.  Essentially, we were able to learn and understand that children growing up in the 21^st century are going to be required to utilize technology in and outside of their school and work careers more so than previous generations.  By teaching them about Digital Citizenship and the use of numerous technologies, we are preparing them for their current and future endeavors.

Design meaningful and authentic digitally based learning experiences with multiple and varied assessments

In my opinion, our experience with the use of Scratch emphasizes our design of meaningful and authentic digitally based learning experiences with multiple and varied assessments.  We were able to work with and begin to understand Scratch during our conversation with Dr. Fadjo; who is a proponent of the utilization of Scratch in the classroom.  In my opinion, it was difficult at first but after tinkering with it, I was able to create a decent video.  I can see that this sort of project would be very good for students who enjoy creating and/or designing their own projects, instead of sitting through lectures, debates, etc.  Also, this is a great method of assessment because after the completion of the project, the students would be able to witness their own work come to life. 

     

Reflect upon and demonstrate effective use of digital tools and resources

As a class, we have been demonstrating the effective use of digital tools and resources throughout our experience with posting on Blogger.  Through Blogger, we have been discussing various uses of digital tools and resources which will greatly enhance the learning done by our potential students in the future.  Also, these entities will enhance the knowledge of the teachers because they will be able to utilize more technology and be better prepared to educate children.

Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of safe, ethical, legal and moral practices related to digital information and technology

In my opinion, we have definitely demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of safe, ethical, legal, and moral practices related to digital information and technology through our discussions about Digital Citizenship.  We learned that in regards to Digital Citizenship, students should understand human, cultural, and societal issues related to technology and to practice legal and ethical behavior.  If we don’t teach students about Digital Citizenship, they will not be able to effectively utilize the internet and its numerous resources.  Teaching children about this phenomenon will help curb some of the worse online problems affecting children, such as cyber-bullying, kidnapping, etc.    

Illustrate through application how state and national standards are implemented within the curriculum (e.g., NH Curriculum Frameworks, ISTE (NETS-Teacher/NETS-Student) and NH-ICT Literacy Standards for K-12 Students

We have only just begun to work on this learning outcome through our beginning stages of our Lesson Plans.  In my experience, I am using the Frameworks because I’m associated with the Social Studies aspect of Education.  After the completion of our Lesson Plan and the Web 2.0 project, we should have a much better understanding of the implementation of state and national standards within the curriculum of various schools.  

Demonstrate an understanding of the use of adaptive technologies and other digital resources to personalize and differentiate learning activities for every student

            Once again, we have only just begun to work on this learning outcome through our beginning stages of our Digital Storytelling project.  As far as I know, we are all working with the program known as Animoto.  I can definitely visualize the effective use of this in the classroom by both teachers and their students.  This is a good method in which learning activities can be personalized and differentiated among students.  Students will be able to create and design their own video while gathering useful technological skills for the future.  

   

Evaluate, adapt and reflect on emerging tools and trends by participating in local and global learning communities and by reviewing current research and professional literature

Personally, I believe that portions of this learning outcome have been met throughout this class but it should be completely fulfilled by the end of the course. Participation in local and global learning communities is important because it allows teachers to gather more and more information about the Educational Community and newer and newer forms of technology; which will be utilized by teachers and their students in the classroom.  We have been reviewing some current research and some professional literature about this phenomenon but not too much.  Hopefully, we will have a greater understanding of this learning outcome after the completion of other classes within this program.