Reflecting IITC Part 2 Midpoint

In my last blog I discussed the idea of being able to use assistive technology with all students to improve their learning experience. However reading the discussion comments from my classmates technology in the classroom in our schools has to come a long way for this to be possible. I was shocked at the lack of computers in some schools let alone assistive technology and software, this is a significant issue that needs to be address for our education system.

Through this section of the course I have learned how to benefit from the resources on the internet. In the past I have tended to look to limited software and technology, colleagues, board resources and books for my educational needs. Now I have found the internet is also a rich educational resource. To name a few of the resources the internet has could include educational Blogs, online articles like the ones from TeacherTips.com, on-line mind mapping sites and YouTube videos covering many things such as how to use assistive technologies for both on-line resources and computer software. Just like doing any other research you need to double check the source and references to note the credibility of the site. The discussion in this section of the course have offered insight on how to use technology within the curriculum and colleagues offering specific websites and programs.

Contributing in the discussions during my course has been a learning experience. The ideas we are sharing truly addresses the concerns for all students to learn and experience success. We have many teachers across Ontario taking part in AQ courses to improve their professional knowledge and stay current. As I have already noted some teachers are doing this not having the appropriate resources in their schools (i.e. like computers, others may be just material like text books). I believe this experience has demonstrated that standards of practice for the teaching profession is alive and well.

I am not usually one to ask questions. Therefore at this time my thoughts are to farther develop my interest in using the internet as a source of assistive technology. I would like to explore story making programs either on-line or using software that would be appropriate for grade 8 students.