Reflection

I entered this program because I have a passion for education and technology.  We live in a digital society and today’s learners must possess 21st century skills to succeed. In order for our students to be prepared to prosper in a digital society educators must have the appropriate skills. Educators must be willing to facilitate and inspire student learning, design and develop digital-age learning experiences, model digital-age work and learning, promote and model digital citizenship and responsibility, and engage in professional growth and leadership.  The Instructional Technology program provided me with the background and knowledge in all of these areas and gave me a foundation on which to build.  As reflected in the work presented in my portfolio, I have developed skills in each of the areas specified by The ISTE National Educational Technology Standards (NETS•T) and Performance Indicators for Teachers.

I hope to obtain a position in a school district or at a college or university in the capacity of Technology Coordinator or Classroom Technology Support Specialist.  The graduate program introduced me to a number of technologies that I am likely to support and has also taught me about the different pedagogical approaches required to create effective learning experiences. Before I started, I had never heard of a Wiki, I was not knowledgeable about learning theories, the principles of design were nonexistent, and I knew only the basics about instructional design.  I am now familiar with wikis, blogs, RSS feeds, Web 2.0 technologies, podcasts and many other web technologies.  I understand how each of these technologies, if properly implemented in the classroom, can lead to positive learning experiences and outcomes for students. 

I gained a great deal of knowledge from each course. Designing visuals taught me about the different strategies and considerations required to design materials and multimedia for education and instruction.  My coursework also taught me how to research and develop curriculum-based instruction that uses technology in meaningful ways.  From Simulations and Games, I learned how educational games can be used to enhance learning and even created one of my own.  Researching Current Issues in Instructional Technology has allowed me to explore some  issues that I may face in the field of instructional technology and challenged me to come up with ideas on how to respond to those issues and construct possible solutions.  The ITEC program was structured in a way where ideas and concepts from one course carried over into many of the other course, which turned out to be a great reinforcement of learning.

I realize that learning does not stop here and I must continue to improve my skills and introduce new ones into my skill set.  I must invest in my knowledge by participating actively in professional development activities which will allow me to grow academically and professionally.  In addition to pursuits of lifelong learning, I must stay abreast of the new technologies that facilitate learning. Following professional blogs, subscribing to academic newsletters, and attending conferences are all ways that I can engage in professional growth and leadership.  This degree has allowed me to further my growth in the field of instructional technology and has set me on the path to accomplish my career goals.