In Module 1 We learned about Google docs, forms, sheets and slides.

I used to think, I didn’t need to learn to use Google Docs, Sheets, forms, or slides, because I was so well trained in Microsoft Office, But now I know how to maneuver forms, to the fonts needed, and I also know how to add a “signature” to my docs, which I didn’t know could be done to my resume. I was able to use forms to create a quiz, Google sheets to create a Spreadsheet, and Google Slides to create a PowerPoint. I now believe that I can continue learning how to work each of these, and bring them into my classroom, and also use them for personal projects.

We used Google Docs, Forms, sheets and slides

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1kJuvX3-c316zdVAsO_U29otJil9x6unPiNvpV-xBKuI/edit?usp=sharing,

In Module 2, we had to create a “Concept Map”, and introduction to Lesson planning.

I used to think I wouldn’t need to learn how to create a concept map on Google draw to highlight the standards of the lesson we would be learning,  But now I think I can bring this to my classroom, and show different standards that need to be assessed, and it can also be used to organize different lessons in the classroom, built right into the lesson plan.

In Module 3 we made a flip grid, and  screencastify and dive into using ISTE standards

The ISTE standards were difficult for me, as I’ve never used them or been introduced to them. These were fun and interactive ways to express your thoughts. 

I used to think “why would I need to use screencastify, Because I don’t work in journalism. But, now I think you can use Screencastify in a lot more ways than to spread news! I tried it on a PBS website for a brief in-class assignment, and the children loved to hear MY voice on one of their favorite apps to use. I also now know that it is important to be able to show these ISTE standards when the sites are implemented into the lesson plan. If being observed, the standards will be able to show how the children are learning from that particular site.

https://youtu.be/dQYACeKxAbw  - Screen castify

In Module 4 we used Chatterpix, or other sites to create animated videos or cartoons, and how to incorporate fun technology into the lesson plan.

I used to think, since I am not a teacher of technology, I would never need to learn how to use a site such as “Chatterpix”, But now I think this is one of the coolest sites I have been introduced to. The children loved to hear their own voices coming from the characters on the Chatterpix that we made. 

https://youtube.com/shorts/QNZBMhAUg1Q?si=DXVEorEKMl-KQCVc

In Module 5 we learned about Assistive Technology, my choices were Google forms, and Kahoot, and how to incorporate Assistive technology into the lesson.

I used to think there was no way an app such as “Soundcloud” could be incorporated into the classroom. But, now I think, this is a very great choice for assistive learning and will allow ALL students to be be able to interact using technology.

https://soundcloud.com/user431220498/assistive-technology?si=982dbf7718ff424c801a39cd626fc499&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing

In module 6 we were introduced to Visual Storytelling. I chose StoryJumper, and I had the entire classroom to work together to make a book, using the idioms that we had been learning. 

I used to think I would never create a book with my class, as I don't consider myself a writer. But, now I think I want to publish a book that my class made of the idioms that we have learned.

Link to our storybook: https://www.storyjumper.com/book/read/169797601

Links to an external site.

The way of the future is technology!!We learned that assessments do not always have to be written. I used StoryJumper as my Formative Assessments, leading up to the Summative assessment. Tests can be fun and CREATIVE!. 

The exercises we completed were significant because they provided me with a range of opportunities to develop a varied lesson plan.  It was crucial that I could accomplish the objectives of understanding and being introduced to the variety of possibilities and resources that are out there and that I can use with my lesson plan to incorporate them into the classroom. I thought I knew a lot about technology when I started this course, but I was surprised to learn about a ton of websites and applications that I had never heard of.

Every week, the kids have been giddy with anticipation to see whatever new website or application I've chosen to show them. I introduced the kids to the websites and brought them to life in my classroom as I became more knowledgeable about them. As previously mentioned, I assumed I understood a lot about technology, but in retrospect, I didn't realize how little I actually knew about it or how many excellent applications those various websites may have inside the classroom.