This Semester

Things I have learned because of this class:

* New technology is not intimidating. I just get all worked up over nothing because in the end, I can learn it.

* Technology has so much potential; it is up to me to find ways to use it effectively as a teacher, or decide what is not useful for my class.

*I think that having a class blog or website will be one of the most useful things I take away from this class. However, there are so many other things that I liked that I will probably incorporate lots of them! I will also likely use iMovie to make introductions or clips to accompany various lessons in my classroom.

P.S.
Here's a great technology comic. Apologies if it offends...

My background and goals with technology

I learned how to use computers growing up and in school so I am pretty fluent with the survival stuff like Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. I am fairly fluent in the internet; however, that being said this is the first time I have ever really done a blog. The other thing I have done with computers is play games, to which I confess many hours of wasted time in life. Here's a great game to waste your time: http://www.addictinggames.com/bloonstowerdefense2.html

I have a facebook and I have unhappy grades from previous semesters to prove it. There's even a facebook group about it: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/group.php?gid=4953151307

My major goals for this class and technology are to:

1. Find out what things are out there that I don't even know about
2. Learn how to use them fluently
3. Find their application in the field of Education

For example, I have NEVER used a webcam in my life. I just haven't really needed to use one before. But these Voicethreads seem fun and so I will learn to use one. There probably isn't too much more to it than just plugging it in and making sure it is pointed at the right spot. I guess I'll be finding out.

I look forward to a great semester and becoming more technology savvy!