Looking Back, Looking Ahead

I have to admit that going into education I didn't realize that so many different forms of technology could be incorporated into the teachings that occur day after day. At the beginning of the semester, I knew how to use the usual tools and technology that I grew up using such as PowerPoint, but I had no idea about the numerous tools and types of technology that not only helps students but teachers as well. With the idea of using social media websites for PLNs alone, one can reach out to so many different educators, bloggers, and in general ideas that we can use in the classrooms ourselves. Using twitter this semester was a new experience for me, and for the most part I still consider myself a novice user, but I understand the value and help I can get just by reaching out to other educators via twitter! Now that I am aware of these resources, it is in a way mind boggling that people aren't able to use these same resources simply because they are not aware of them.

I personally feel that finishing this course has definitely prepared me that much more to be a more knowledge, better prepared, and more efficient teacher that can teach 21st century learners for a number of reasons. First and foremost, I now know about the various tools and skills that I can improve as I grow, which as a result will make me a better educator. Also, the ability to communicate and reach out to so many other people throughout the world results in an endless amount of help and guidance these individuals can offer. By having these resources available, one can adapt and modify tools and tech that will make learning more fun, engaging, and beneficial to the students . Because the options are endless when it comes to tech tools and different types of technology, I know that anyone can incorporate these user friendly tools and skills in their own lives, which will furthermore prepare and guide educators.

As I had previously stated, going into the course I had no know real knowledge on these different types of technology that are available, so everything I learned in the course was something that really stood out to me as being useful. Through this course, I have learned a lot about education, technology that can be used in education, the issues and problems that educators must be aware of, and how to reach others for assistance. All of these factors play a huge role in how I will teach in the near future, but I am sure that because I am now familiar with these valuable resources, I will be a better teacher.