As a high school mathematics teacher, the prospect of learning new technological strategies for the classroom is very exciting to me. I'm one of those educators who preaches comprehension of "the basics"; but at the same time understands the need to ready our students for an ever-changing society. I'm hoping to gain several different strategies that will help my engage and facilitate the learning of my pupils during the next eighteen months. The only example I have of utilizing technology in my classroom would be activities provided by Texas Instruments (graphing calculator lessons). Along with aiding my classroom instruction, I'm excited to become more computer literate as an individual. I feel like I will be able to learn so much useful knowledge from not only the professors, but also from my peers.
In regards to our first classroom session, I somewhat feel like Owen Wilson from Armageddon. I'm 98% excited, and 2% scared...or maybe it's other way around. The discussion of Google Docs, blogs, and multiple browsers was fascinating because I'm not overly familiar with any of them; but also intimidating for the same reasons. However, my apprehension is somewhat subdued by the congenial nature of Dr. Loeffler and my peers. For example, when I revealed I was one of few who had never blogged before, I received a warm reception of understanding, and that was comforting. I thought it was fitting that our first class was spent discussing some of the various tools that will allow us to collaborate and express ideas collectively.
Thanks for reading my blog, I look forward to your input and comments!
