This course was extremely valuable because it strengthened
my ability to develop courses using the GAME plan. I used the GAME plan to
develop the course entitled “Using Figurative Language to Determine the Theme.”
Based on instructor input, collaborating with my colleagues via the blogs and
discussions, and reading the course materials, I was able to develop a good
GAME plan and at the same time gain new learning.
One
of the most important items I learned is the importance of International’s (2008) five standards and performance
indicators. For example, the Modeling Digital Age Work standard and performance
indicator reinforced that I need to set goals in staying up to date and fluent
in the newer technology systems. Therefore, my goal is to be the resident
expert on most technologies by continuing my research on using the latest
technologies in the classroom and submitting articles on using technology in
the classroom to be published. The other standard and performance indicator that
really had an impact on me was Engaging in Professional Growth and Leadership. Therefore,
I will set goals to continue my research on integrating technology into the
classroom but also to participate in local and global learning communities.
Whenever, I get a chance to speak or be involved, I want to share my research
with others. I’ll monitor my progress from the feedback received from my
speaking engagements and participation. I’ll evaluate and extend my learning by
improving my delivery based off of the feedback I receive.
Another item that I learned was that when I’m developing problem
based learning, I need to work on my problem. Oscar provided some valuable
feedback. He offered that it seems as if the problem I posted was more intended
to solve a problem that I observed from my students. Instead, I need to offer
more of a real world problem which will turn out to be more engaging for my
students. I will definitely take his advice and make adjustments when developing
problem based learning.
Overall, this course was magnificent! Learning how to develop a
GAME plan, enhancing my instructional capability by being better prepared to
integrate technology across content areas, and being able to incorporate problem
based learning, social networking/online collaboration, and digital
storytelling into my instruction have really strengthened my ability to become
a more effective technology advocate.
References
International Society
for Technology in Education. (2008). National education technology
standards for teachers. Retrieved from
http://www.iste.org/docs/pdfs/nets-t-standards.pdf?sfvrsn=2.
