Reflective Blogging Assignment #1

Factors that played a role in ensuring positive results when technology was integrated in the classroom where: Teacher’s computer proficiency which is found to be one of the most important factors. The effects were also mostly found to be indirect. Two previous path models (Mathews and Guarino 2000;Robinson 2003), in contrast, found that the effect of computer proficiency was significant and direct. Overall the proficiency of the teachers were indirect. A teacher must be willing and possess the right attitude toward technology integration in order for it to be successful. I belief it is impossible to adequately introduce something new if the person (teacher) is not knowledgeable.

In my own classroom, I can ensure that the factors listed are present by using the pedagogy of technology, developing e-mails with other staff in my building and teachers in other districts. Using technology in the classroom would be a new concept for my future classroom; advice from seasoned teachers would help with my success. Incorporating technology with core learning goals like writing (creatively and grammatically correct), English and Mathematics. Working with other teachers to design special curricula that will keep children engaged while enjoying a fresh learning experience. My vision of a class with technology has me in a position where I can answer student’s questions quickly and accurately, I can provide a fun and engaging environment, students will learn to work in groups and independently, and at the end of my class possess the ability to manipulate modern technology with ease.

Evaluating the success of a unit or lesson is something that should be done prior to the integration of new technology.  Goldman, Cole, and Syer (1999) say, “At its best, technology can facilitate deep exploration and integration of information, high-level thinking, and profound engagement by allowing students to design, explore, experiment, access information, and model complex phenomena,". This statement could not be further from the truth as it relates to students. In today’s competitive era student’s need to think critically in order to survive in what is becoming technologically demanding world.

I would disseminate successes by closely reviewing research studies with data that support or do not support their expected rates of success. It is impossible to avoid every possible mishap but it is smart to research and plan an objective instead of using and exploratory method. For example, Adams, S. T. (2005) conducted technological study with elementary teachers that showed them leaving in-service training with advanced proficient skills when they were simply proficient prior to the in-service training. I believe that proper planning builds a better rate of success.