Assignment 1 Part 2

Technology is the key to the future of our students, teaching, and the nation. Without technology we cannot compete in our quickly expanding global world. The tools our students need to succeed should be utilized in our day to day classroom activities. After completing the two assessments my areas of weakness are related to the acquisition of information, problem solving, and communication. I agree with this assessment to a certain degree. Although I scored low in certain categories in these areas, I feel adequate and proficient in other categories.

My lack of familiarity with technology terminology makes me relatively certain that I know how to use certain tools, but do not know the titles for each. For example LANS and WANS. I am certain that I have used both of these tools, but do not know their meaning. Searching the internet is a skill I feel comfortable with, however, understanding the difference between a search engine and a directory I’m not familiar with. I am aware that the knowledge is available to access, research, and compare data. However, knowing how to access that data is an area of weakness.

In the area of solving problems using technology I feel confident using word, Microsoft works, power point, excel, and other word processing documents. However, I am not familiar with all the settings available in each document type. For example, I know that Excel documents can be used to calculate percentages, etc., but when using this tool I must ask for assistance in order to remember the procedures. I am aware that many tools are available but do not posses the immediate knowledge to implement these tools. When it comes to adding video or audio to a presentation I am completely lost. I believe that shared learning through the internet would be of great benefit in my area of social studies. However, I do not have the knowledge to operate this tool, nor is my school equipped to provide this service.

Through both of these assessments the lack of technological opportunities afforded our students is disturbing. I regularly here from all levels of administration how important technology is in the classroom. However, especially at the high school, the tools, training, and time needed to provided such changes is extremely inadequate.

I believe strongly that my strengths in the area of technology lie in my willingness to learn and my understanding of the value of technology in the classroom for the 21st Century student. I already utilize technology in my classroom and desire to better understand what other tools I could employ daily.