Reflection

Much of today's learning is self-directed. Therefore, using the Game Plan process allows learners to achieve their goals and systematically analyze their progress. The Game Plan process has four steps: setting goals, taking action to meet those goals, monitoring your progress toward achieving your goals, and evaluating whether the goals were achieved and determining how to apply your learning to new situations (Cennamo, Ross, and Ertmer, 2009). The Game Plan process has allowed me to ask essential questions in order to develop as a learner and educator.

My personal game plan outlined two goals. First, I wanted to create digital assessments to help track student progress. Secondly, I wanted to teach students the importance of Internet safety and evaluating resources. Through my game plan and research, I have discovered several resources that will allow me to digitally assess my student's understanding of various concepts. I am hopeful that these assessments will not only provide insight regarding student progress, but will help me to increase my personal productivity. My research has also lead me to several sites that promote safe Internet use. During the upcoming school year, my students will access and share this information with their parents. I have also learned a great deal about the evaluation of information. Therefore, I plan to share my expertise with students to help them become more self-directed, knowledgeable learners.

The personal game plan that I have created will apply to the start of our new school year. As I accomplish the goals that I have outlined, I will formulate a new game plan to help me achieve goals in other areas of need. I plan to implement the game plan process with my students this year. I believe that it helps them to set goals and monitor their progress. Setting goals and reflecting upon your achievements helps students become intrinsically motivated.

Along with the personal game plan process, I have learned a lot about technology integration. Technology should be seamlessly integrated, allowing lessons to apply to not only content, but also technology standards. Students should use technology to inspire creativity, communication, and collaboration. Technology can help teachers create authentic learning experiences, which support student inquiry (Cennamo, Ross, and Ertmer, 2009). This course has broadened my understanding of problem-based learning and the importance of establishing a good question that is authentic. Although I have used social networking sites and digital storytelling in the past, I believe that the expert advice within course readings has offered resources and fine-tuned my approach to these tools.

As I continue my teaching career, I will integrate what I have learned about technology and its ability to support content area instruction. Technology can be an inspiring and motivating tool! As a teacher leader, I will continue to support other teachers and relay the importance of instructional tools and strategies that I have learned.

References

Cennamo, K., Ross, J. & Ertmer, P. (2009). Technology Integration for Meaningful Classroom Use: A Standards-Based Approach. (Laureate Education, Inc., Custom ed.). Belmont, CA: Wadsworth, Cengage Learning.