End of Semester Reflection

Wow! Is it over already? It seems like just yesterday I was looking at the assignment sheet with a pit in my stomach wondering how I was going to learn all this new technology and accomplish the tasks ahead. Now I know with a little training and practice, most teachers can learn to use technology effectively to increase student learning. My attitude toward technology in education has definitely changed since my fear of something new held me back in the past. I used to think that I could be just as effective with an overhead and a chalkboard, but now I see that although those materials can be used to teach, there is a world of possibilities I can open up for my students if I am willing to change. I love getting new ideas to implement in the classroom and this class stretched me way beyond my comfort zone. BUT, I did it! Thank you to Professor Sorenson and to all my classmates who guided and encouraged me through this class. I have so many new tools added to my toolbox, and I can't wait to use them.

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Reflection #10 - my experience student teaching

I just completed my final teaching assessment today and it went well! For those who have that to look forward to in the future, don't let it scare you. Just be yourself. The professor observing only wants to help you, not cut you down.
Today's lesson was on punctuation, and I was able to use the interactive whiteboard for much of the lesson. The students were very patient with me since they knew that this was something new for me and they even gave me pointers when I made mistakes. :) Their board was a little different from the one at Northwest because you have to use a pointer rather than your finger to move things around. That pointer is also the only pen, so you have to make sure it is on the pen symbol before writing. Otherwise, you may move things around without meaning to. (yes, this happened several times) I got used to it though, and now I really hope I have one in my future classroom.