Hmmmmm. The stages of technology integration in the classroom and where I fall? I think right now I am at the Adaptation Stage. I understand the importance of technology in the classroom and for today's learners. Having two children of my own, working in a middle school, and being addicted to my iPhone all increase my desire to know more and use more technology in the classroom. But frequently that pesky reality sets in and disrupts my tech love fest. For my reality is that while I can use technology I don't really understand much about it. When there is an error or malfunction I do not have any idea how to fix it. And I get frustrated and want to play it safe by using the programs I know and love.
I think the main aspect of technology integration I am interested in is using technology in a new way. I frequently see teachers using the laptop in lieu of an overhead but nothing new is being done. Our students not only need the knowledge which can be presented through technology but the know-how to use the technology. And this is where the difficulty lies for me. I have a wealth of technology information but don't know how or where to start using it. So I stick to what I know and use technology in a simple, safe way. I hope this class improves my comfort level in the classroom.
Jennifer the key for me is to find a new tool that compliments something I am already doing and starting from there. Let take blogging. If I am working on a book with my students and we have a classroom discussion I can listen to that discussion and feel good about it. If I have my students blog about the book as opposed to discussing it in class (or as an extension of a discussion) there is a slightly better chance of keeping the discussion alive. I may begin to add other topics to my blog or add pictures or videos that help students understand the book. But for me the key is staying focused on the BLOG and not trying to find ten other technology tools that can be integrated with the book. My point? Dont' be afraid to find something new...but pick one tool and stick with it. That's how you grow.
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