Applying Technology in the Classroom

I feel most comfortable in the “Producing” tech standards category; more specifically in the “write to explain/inform” and the “use of digital media.” I already have the knowledge of informative/explanatory text and how to include formatting, graphics, and figures in MS Word. I also understand how to create audio recordings and visual displays of data that illustrate information. The area that I feel that could learn more about is the “use of multiple sources.” I can gather information, but I struggle with finding relevant information and accessing different digital sources and making sure that they are credible and accurate. Unfortunately, I am one of those people who generally reads something and assumes it to be true if it isn’t too out there.

There are many software applications that are very useful within a classroom, depending on how they are used. I would most likely teach middle school; with ages ranging from 11-13. Depending on the class that I would be teaching, there are many different use cases. For art, I would use Wacom Tablet, or something similar, and allow my students to use programs like Paint 3D to learn how to do both 2D and 3D graphic design instead of just the regular paint and clay art styles that are generally taught in schools these days. For earth-space science, I could make an entire lesson plan around Starbase which involves 3D printers, and having the students design and create their own rocket ship to get to Mars. For math, there are plenty of amazing tools to help the students comprehend the material via a different look on the topic as shown by an online instructor such as those at Khan Academy. Pretty much every topic from astronomy to nursing has software that can be used to assist in the education of the students, and as instructors, it is our job to find them, and apply them in the way that would help the students most.

Creating the Newsletter Design assignment helped build skills such as formatting, content, and design. I liked that I was able to use MS Word in a new way. By creating documents outside of my current skill level, I was able to get more familiar with MS Word functions and purpose. On the downside, I didn’t enjoy not knowing where certain tools were located (I used a different version of Word than I normally do) or having to be under a time crunch. I think I can improve next time by giving myself more time to practice and research different techniques in MS Word or whatever application the skills check is on. In addition, I feel that I could spend more time on my own, playing around with MS Word capabilities. I think the newsletter assignment could help me in the future by knowing what to look for in an article/newsletter. I will have a better understanding of how to structure and design a news piece that will capture their attention, yet still be an informative piece.