When I first thought about my use of technology as a teacher, I felt pretty strong. I feel comfortable with technology and I try to use it when possible. I know there are areas I could grow, but I felt pretty good. However, after I reviewed the ISTE standards, I realized how far I really have to go and how much I could stand to improve upon.
The first two statements from the International Society of Technology in Education [ISTE] (2008), “Facilitate and inspire student learning and creativity,” and “Design and develop digital age learning experiences and assessments,” are the two areas that I could stand to improve upon. I teach in a STAAR tested grade and my district is very focused on testing, way more than integration of technology. Because of this, I think a lot of my instruction is more focused on this, then on using technology in ways to inspire creativity in my students. In order to get past these weaknesses, I think I need to be more strategic in how to use technology, but still adequately prepare my students for the test. I have recently been introduced to Google Classroom, so I’m trying to integrate this in a way that I can use to assess my students. I need to make more of an effort to integrate technology into the subjects that are not tested with STAAR. Additionally, I have found it hard to use technology at my school because my district does not spend a lot of money on revamping our technology, so a lot of it is out of date or does not work properly. It is often not an efficient use of time to use technology because you will spend a significant portion of the time trying to get it to work. Time that takes away from the learning of the students.
I think my strengths are more closely related to standard three, “model digital age work and learning” and standard five, “engage in personal growth and leadership” (ISTE, 2008). I consider myself a digital native and feel that I am fairly proficient in using technology. Additionally, I try to improve myself professionally, especially when it comes to technology. I have attended conferences on technology and literacy that provided many great resources that I have tried to use, although not as successfully as I would like. When possible, I try to collaborate with colleagues that are open to using and successful with using technology. I am a member of my campus’ technology cadre and have spent time sharing the information that I have gained through these experiences with my campus and colleagues.
References
International Society for Technology in Education (2008). ISTE standards for teachers. Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/standards/iste-standards/standards-for-teachers
