Final Course Reflection

After completing IT 365, I feel a lot more confident in using technology in my classroom. I learned how to effectively use different programs. I learned how to create my own personal teacher website through using GoogleSites. My website goes into depth about what my class weekly schedule would be like and has a personal page, as well. I learned how to create a concept map through using the program Inspiration. I learned how to create my own personal blog through using Google’s blogger application. I learned about Assistive/Adaptive technology that is offered for students with disabilities. I learned about how to assist both a deaf and/or blind student.

My most favorite thing that I was taught in this class would have to be how to effectively create a digital movie. I could definitely utilize this tool in my classroom. I could make a digital movie to go along with any activity that my class were in process of. The great thing about using a digital movie in a classroom is that it could be used as a form of visual representation for the students. This would definitely help a child who may not understand the topic or lesson.

I feel like IT 365 was a great class, but it may need a few minor changes. I believe that there should have been more class time to discuss the assignments together. I also wanted to work more with Powerpoint. The class definitely could have been made more fun for the students. I wish a lot more enthusiasm was present during this class.

I learned about a lot of different programs that Google offers that can be used in the classroom. I learned how to create my own personal blog off of Google’s blogger application. A blog can be used in the classroom to have a way for the teacher, students, and parents to communicate. I learned how to create a Googledoc. A Googledoc can be used to communicate different ideas between teachers. I learned how to create my own website through Google’s site application. A teacher website is a great way for parents to see what their kids would be learning about. A teacher website also helps the parents get to know more information about the teacher. I learned how to create a slideshow through Google’s slide program. It works the same way as Microsoft Office’s Powerpoint program.

Assistive/Adaptive Technology and their effects upon Education

      Assistive or adaptive technology is described as any type of device or software that helps assist a student with physical or cognitive disabilities. Assistive technology was created to help students with disabilities. It is used to help strengthen the student’s weak educational areas and work around their specific problems. Assistive technology can help produce a sense of independency for a student with a disability. The use of assistive technology leads to a greater chance of success for students with disabilities. Some examples of assistive technology used in education include: abbreviation expanders, alternative keyboards, audio books, etc. Assistive technology has really helped many students with disabilities.

Reflection about Web Sites/ Google Sites and their uses in Education

                GoogleSites is a great way to make a website.  It is free and very easy to use. A website can be made in just a matter of minutes using GoogleSites without any technology knowledge. By using GoogleSites, it can increase students’ literacy skills. Teachers use GoogleSites to help make their classroom more collaborative and interactive. Teachers use GoogleSites to post homework or even create a discussion board for the students.

                Websites can be used in many ways in the classroom. Students can view different websites when researching for a project. A teacher could create her own website using GoogleSites to inform others about herself and her class. A website is a great way for parents to get in touch with their child’s teacher.