Technologies for Teaching and Learning

This week, I learned about the importance of utilizing technology in the classroom and in classroom management and about the learning process. Educational technology can be defined as any technology or media used by educators to support the teaching and learning process. By integrating technology in my curriculum, I can ultimately enhance student learning. I also learned about various learning styles and perspectives on learning, as a means to better understand the teaching and learning process. Learning can be defined as the transfer of knowledge and skills from teacher to student. It is important as an educator to be able to assess the learning environment, teaching strategies, learning activities and support technologies to enhance the process of teaching and learning.

By utilizing my background in technology as a Graphic and Web Designer, I am enthusiastic about applying my knowledge of technology in the classroom. I can integrate technology in the classroom by adjusting my teaching methods and tools to include various types of technology such as spreadsheets, databases, desktop publishing softwares, presentation programs, word processing, graphic organizers, web design and editing software, web 2.0 tools as well as various hardware including computers, servers, digital cameras and camcorders, and audiovisual equipment as I develop lesson plans for the upcoming school year. I can also utilize technology in assessments including teaching strategies, learning activities and support technologies to determine the success of each in relation to the students learning and achievement.

As a professional transitioning into education, my greatest challenge in integrating technology in my curriculum, classroom management, and assessments is very basic. I have experience with technology; however, I do not have experience in utilizing technology in a classroom.

Learning how to utilize my knowledge of technology and apply it to education will be my challenge. I will need to learn how to develop successful teaching methods and curriculum that will successfully integrate technology into my classroom and ultimately enhance student learning. I will need to learn how to apply technology to classroom management and to assessments to be able to adjust teaching strategies, learning activities and support technologies accordingly.

Overcoming this challenge will entail gaining as much knowledge about education, instruction, learning, and assessments as I can to be able to apply it within a classroom environment. By further understanding student learning and the teaching process I will be able to then apply technology throughout the curriculum, classroom management, and assessments more successfully. I am planning on gaining this knowledge through my coursework at the University of the Cumberlands as I move forward with my transition into education to obtain my MAT and Art Certification. I also plan on gaining a greater understanding and knowledge through personal research, collaboration with co-workers, and experience as an educator.