6713 Final Reflection

The past 8 weeks, whether it is because this course kept me active in learning and implementing new things or because the 2016-2017 school is in full swing, have flown by. Throughout this course I have learned about and created a GAME plan to guide my self-directed learning activities. A GAME plan is simply four easy steps of setting goals, taking action, monitoring progress, and evaluating and extending the learning of students (Cennamo, Ross, & Ertmer, 2009).

In creating a GAME plan I have gained a stronger appreciation for prior planning of each lesson. While planning for a new lesson can be time consuming, the result of proper planning are much more positive. I have found that I am able to push my students higher when using the GAME plan steps as I am fully thinking through all aspects of the activities prior to starting the lesson or unit. I have also found that although my students are young and learning many skills for the first time I can and should release some of the control over to my students, especially when incorporating technology.

            It is important for my students to take control over their learning. This will not only motivate them but also engage them in their education. As a result of this course I will begin to take a step back and allow my students to begin working with the technology in the classroom in a more hands on way. I have always incorporated technology into my classroom but have most often I have had the control. While my fear of just how time consuming it will be to put the technology in the hands of my students I have reaffirmed just how important technology is to their future and success.

Reference

Cennamo, K., Ross, J., & Ertmer, P. (2009). Technology integration for meaningful classroom use: A standards-based approach. (Laureate Education custom ed.). Belmont, CA: Wadsworth.