Reflection on Educational Technology

Reflection on the use of Education Technology for Teachers and Students

Over the last few months, I have reviewed some of the available digital tools that can be used in education by students and teachers, which are used to improve student educational success. Using these tools taught me the importance of using them in the classroom, their complexity, and my interest in utilizing them.

Which ones excited me the most?

The technologies that excited me the most had to do with qualities such as time-saving and application to multiple student learning styles. Infographic applications excited me the most because of their ability to describe a subject in a small amount of time using graphics to display information. Students cannot be expected to be given a textbook and read it for its worth. They need to be able to absorb information in various ways due to different learning needs. For example, visual representations increase student interest because they differentiate learning and use a medium for a generation already primed to learn this way.

Which ones were most difficult?

Surprisingly, the most challenging applications were the ones that I found the most useful. Podcasts and infographics are suitable applications for increasing student success, but the planning and research in developing a lesson are time-consuming. For example, podcasts require information delivered in such a way that spurs interest. Recording one's voice requires a solid performance where skills like engaging the learner, intuitive timing, and consistent performance are needed to ensure student interest and success. Not only did I have to ensure the information was accurate, but I had to rerecord multiple times so my performance was compelling. There is a great deal of time needed to gather research and compile information in a succinct way regarding infographics. Then, there is the time needed to understand a student's interests and a significant amount of time learning how to develop an engaging infographic.

Which one will most benefit students?

The educational tool that will benefit students the most will depend on the students' learning styles. If I had to pick the application that would engage students based on their needs, I would pick infographics. Infographics can deliver information compactly, allowing students to retain information more easily. Also, videos, pictures, lessons, and other media can be embedded to serve a broader spectrum of student needs.

Conclusion:

An article called For the love: Fighting for grace in a world of impossible standards by J. Hatmaker is a helpful standard by which to implement educational technology. To illustrate, it looks at community needs through things like perspectives, history, and conversations. Interviewing leaders and local citizens about their history, visions for future, difficulties, and many other aspects helps educators consider what technology may be appropriate for a community. For example, if a type of technology is already dominantly used by students in a particular community, it would make sense to utilize it.

An essential aspect of an educator's job is to be aware of new educational technology to improve student success. Likewise, we must read sources of information like journals, reputable blogs, and other associated websites to know what is on the horizon. Developing our knowledge will make us more valuable and skilled for our students, teachers, and the community.

Storytelling Application

Using the application called Storyjumper, the following presentation is another type of technology that elementary teachers might find helpful. Click on the link to go directly to the presentation.

https://www.storyjumper.com/book/read/132711092/626c5e0a7ac1b

References

Adapted from Hatmaker, J. (2015). For the love: Fighting for grace in a world of impossible standards. Nashville, TN: Nelson Books.