Using Data To Make An Instructional Decision

My son is enrolled at the local charter school. Even though I may not be a certified teacher, I am a home school teacher for my child. I collected data by having my son complete an end of unit spelling test. I would say the spelling word, say a sentence using the spelling word, and then repeat the spelling word. He would then write the spelling word on the paper. I would then grade the spelling assessment to see which words were spelled correct.

I also wanted to ensure my son understood the meaning of the spelling words, so I continued the assessment by having him write a story using the spelling words. Both of the assessments helped me to know which words my son had mastered, and which words needed additional instruction. We would review the words that needed additional instruction by discussing the meaning of the word. This review would ensure my son had a clear understanding of the meaning of the word. My son would also write the misspelled words five times each.

The use of SmArTy-K12 would assist in administering the assessment as well as collecting the data. The SmArTy-K12 is a spelling assessment tool in which students take tests online. Grading the tests is simple, resulting in immediate feedback. This assessment tool would also help keep track of the tests to know what my son has mastered and the areas that need improvement.

Technology Integrated Matrix from Florida Schools

Upon reviewing the Technology Integrated Matrix from Florida Schools, the stage I feel that most appropriately describes my position in thinking as a person interested in technology and educational outcomes is Authentic Transformation. It is important for students to explore and apply the use of technology tools inside as well as outside the classroom (Florida Center for instructional Technology, n.d.). Using various technology tools such as the internet to engage in projects and activities may have been impossible without the use of technology. The internet has brought learning to a higher level by assisting in creativity, communication, and the research process. The internet has also provided opportunities for students to advance their learning such as receiving an online education instead of the traditional classroom setting.

Technology tools should assist in achieving a higher level of learning inside the classroom as well as in the outside world. The ipad is an example of a technology tool that assists students in the instructional setting as well as beyond the instructional setting. The ipad allows several apps to be downloaded which can focus on educational apps as well as apps such as pinterest, which allows students to connect beyond the instructional setting.

Technology tools and online resources helps students engage in various learning activities. Providing a variety of technology tools assist diverse students with various learning styles to be successful. Students should have access to various technology tools and teachers should practice guided instruction as well as self exploration for students.

As a future educator, I believe in making connections between lessons and real life situations. Allowing students to explore on their own and become familiar with a variety of technology tools will help them to be successful inside and outside the classroom. Technology is advancing at a rapid pace and it is crucial for educators to ensure students are keeping up with technology and using technology to it’s full potential.

References

Florida Center for Instructional Technology. (n.d.). Technology Integration Matrix. Retrieved from http://fcit.usf.edu/matrix/

Advancements in Technology

The key developments that I think have been most significant include the black board, projectors, computers, internet, smart phones, and social media. Even though technology has advanced from black boards to interactive boards, black boards were still a huge step in the advancement of education when they were invented. Black boards and projectors allowed teachers to better instruct students and provided a better education for students. Computers, internet, smart phones, and social media advanced learning to a whole new level. Developments in technology today have opened more options for individuals than ever. Without the advancement in technology, it would be very difficult for individuals, like myself to advance in their education. Face book has also helped me to stay connected and communicate with friends.   

 Have you ever thought back for a moment what it would be like to live a hundred years ago or more? My experience with technology in the classroom includes chalk boards, overhead projectors, and some computer use. I have not been in a classroom setting where I have experienced the high-tech interactive white boards. Check out this you tube video to gain knowledge on interactive white boards. They are amazing! 

Black boards and overhead projectors were a great tool when I attended elementary school, but looking back now as a student, technology has progressed so much. I had limited access to computers when I was in elementary school, but my knowledge about software, computers, and the internet really advanced when I was in high school. I was able to take courses learning how to operate programs such as Word and Excel. During high school, we were allowed to use the internet for some reference, but we were still required to go to the library to complete research papers. We now have so many resources, it’s amazing! Having access to the internet alone has opened several doors to advance our learning.

The use of technology has increased my learning dramatically. My husband and I got the iphone 4 a few years ago. I was scared to step out of my comfort zone and advance my learning with a smart phone. After having a smart phone, I will never go without it. It is so convenient now that I know how to use it. It is amazing how educating yourself a little bit goes a long way. I know there are so many tools out there that I havn’t even explored. I often catch myself saying, “How did anyone ever get anything done without the technology we have today?” I am very thankful for the progress of technology as it has made it possible and more convenient for me to attend college and working toward receiving my bachelor’s degree. I recently downloaded the Ashford App on my iphone, which has been incredibly helpful. I recommend downloading the app. I have been able to research so many different things on the internet that advance my learning. Technology such as pinterest has also helped me to “think outside the box” and be more creative. This is one area that I have always struggled with, and I am so thankful that social media has helped me to progress in this area.