Reflection # 1

My reflection is late! This is driving me crazy, I hate having late assignments. I decided to wait until I had time to research and view information on emerging technology. I did Goggling and found some awesome, intriguing, and weird technology that is emerging. However, I just kept coming back to the Wiki I am developing for my 8th grade literature students. I am so excited and fearful at the same time. I could not sleep Monday night because I was so worried that the Wiki would not work or the district would suddenly decide to block the Wikispaces again. I really believe this is a new resource for students to use for an old idea, discussions, and other assignments. I am starting by posting information for a unit on the novel, The Outsiders and having students post the answers to discussion questions and respond to their classmates’ posts. Just nice and simple to start with and go from there.

To me this is emerging technology because it is pushing the envelope of something I have never used as a teacher. I use Wikis as a student and feel comfortable in that regard, but teaching it is a big responsibility. If it works then I am the new tech guru at school if not then I viewed as a teacher who wasted time that is for learning. I am process time teacher, I really think learning is about how you get their not what is at the end. Actually, I do not believe there ever should be an end to learning. People criticize and poke fun of me at work because I am pursuing my doctorate, but I really do not believe I can continue to grow as a person or a teacher unless I follow my own dreams. Earning my doctorate is my way of continuing my desire to learn and better myself.

Back to the Wiki for my students, they seemed excited about the idea. Several students told me they went home and showed their parents the site. My principal is excited about the idea and said if it works then I have to show everyone else how to do it. Then we get into the whole ‘wood’ category of teachers. “I would, but…” Actually, it really bothers me that other teachers consider me an over achiever and kiss up because I am always trying out new ideas and expanding the use of technology in my classroom. I admit that part of it because I am curious about whether or not it will increase student’s engagement and learning. In addition, I know that technology is one tool that is not going away and I do not want to left behind. Guess this would be a great place to insert a joke about NCLB.