The Last Post-- for DED 318, That is
Discuss the TWO (2) tools that were your personal favorites from the semester and why.
The first of these tools that I found the most interesting would have to be, Canva , which I mentioned on my subpage entitled "Design Like a Pro". This application stood out to me not only because it was my first project in this class, but because of the importance I think that an environment full of positivity holds. Through this app, both my students and I have the freedom to create beautiful things using our own photography as well, and are easily able to share them with the creative community.
Secondly, I chose iMovie as my favorite tool. This tool was used in two separate projects, both "My First iMovie," and "Celebrate Kansas Voices." I've been a fan of iMovie for quite some time, but it was simply used for my own recreation such as making dance videos, pretend infomercials, etc. Therefore, this class giving my the option to use it as an outlet for educational purposes was great.
I plan on using the trailer feature of the program quite often in order for my children to become more interested and engaged with the books that they are currently reading. This can make an otherwise groan-worthy classic modernized and intriguing. I also plan on using the full capabilities of the application in order for children to learn how to film each other and edit clips in order to create a unique project.
I plan on using the trailer feature of the program quite often in order for my children to become more interested and engaged with the books that they are currently reading. This can make an otherwise groan-worthy classic modernized and intriguing. I also plan on using the full capabilities of the application in order for children to learn how to film each other and edit clips in order to create a unique project.
Look back through your entire website, and look at all you have learned. Reflect on what you have learned this semester.
Over the course of this rather short but very impactful semester, I have learned many things. One of the first and most important things that I learned was less about technology and more about being a beneficial member of the teaching community. To truly make a difference, the effort equals the size of the reward. So, even on the days that I thought, "Ugh, I don't want to work on this project," I had a realization that the only person that I'm hurting by being lazy is myself and my future career. I need to set an example for my students and other teachers, and by working hard and getting the most out of this class I possibly can, I do that.
One thing that I think that is great about having a blog is the visual indicators of progress. I spent a lot of time looking at my first posts compared to my most recent ones, only a short eight weeks later, and was dumbfounded by the literacy I gained in so many subject areas; whether it be my interest in creating longer more in-depth reviews, or my willingness to try out applications that I would've been previously too intimidated to.
The most stressful but proud moments of my semester was actually working with the application we used during the last week, Explain Everything. The concept seemed simple enough, and I went into every week confident in my ability to figure out new applications quickly. However, this week was different. Everything seemed to be going wrong, and for a moment, I thought about just taking the 0. However, with a quick survey through my progress and the other amazing things I've created this semester, I had the push I needed to create something greater than I had even imagined I'd be capable of.
In total, the amount I've gained this semester has been so much more than just meeting the requirements of a one credit hour course. I've grown in confidence, excitement to be in the classroom, and willingness to make the effort needed to excel. I now often check the edtech hashtag on twitter by choice, and have a genuine interest in the growth of this aspect of the world of education. I hope to be able to continue this website and impact as many other teachers and students as possible.
One thing that I think that is great about having a blog is the visual indicators of progress. I spent a lot of time looking at my first posts compared to my most recent ones, only a short eight weeks later, and was dumbfounded by the literacy I gained in so many subject areas; whether it be my interest in creating longer more in-depth reviews, or my willingness to try out applications that I would've been previously too intimidated to.
The most stressful but proud moments of my semester was actually working with the application we used during the last week, Explain Everything. The concept seemed simple enough, and I went into every week confident in my ability to figure out new applications quickly. However, this week was different. Everything seemed to be going wrong, and for a moment, I thought about just taking the 0. However, with a quick survey through my progress and the other amazing things I've created this semester, I had the push I needed to create something greater than I had even imagined I'd be capable of.
In total, the amount I've gained this semester has been so much more than just meeting the requirements of a one credit hour course. I've grown in confidence, excitement to be in the classroom, and willingness to make the effort needed to excel. I now often check the edtech hashtag on twitter by choice, and have a genuine interest in the growth of this aspect of the world of education. I hope to be able to continue this website and impact as many other teachers and students as possible.
