Week 11- KWL

K-
I knew a lot about technology in general. I've always been very comfortable with it and loved to use computers and the internet. I also have taken a SMARTboard class.

W-
How can I use technology to make my classroom better, instead of just putting my lessons on the internet?
What is global education?

L-
This class really changed my idea of technology in the classroom. Last quarter I took a class on assessment and the teacher used the metaphor of creating a "Disney World" system of assessment. From the moment you walk into Disney they collect data on everything that you do, and you don't notice because everything is so seamless. I really feel like this applies to technology as well. I had thought that you use technology in certain ways. Over this course, I learned that if it is just part of everything in a subtle way, you can make your classroom more efficient and effective. You can also give them new experiences, like collaborating with other classrooms; or enhance existing lessons, like letting them collaborate on notes while watching a video or presentation. Possibly the biggest thing I learned is the importance of blogging. We did a lot of blogging in this class, so I started talking to high school teachers about their experiences with students blogging. I was amazed by the results that teachers have gotten from their students, simply by having them blog instead of writing papers.

I also learned what going global can do for your classroom. Its an amazing way to expand your classroom and give your students an opportunity to really practice some business skills. I think it will also increase the accountability of the students in their projects because they aren't just working with their friends, they are responsible to other students as well.