Reflection on Educational Technology

At the commencement of this course and just by the name of it, I assumed it was going to be
about learning methods and strategies of how to teach mathematics using technology. Since I do
not have any teaching experience, and love using technological devices I was very excited to
learn of methods based on empirical research that would help to build on and improve my
teaching styles and practices. At the beginning of the course, we started off with learning what
the title of the course was, and what it entailed. We were asked to post about ourselves, and also
we were asked to make a C map, something that left all students puzzled with a look of
confusion on their faces we were not familiar with what exactly was to be done. It was then
brought to our attention a sample of what we should do, and we then realized that we had learned
most of the concept in previous courses.
I was again exposed to the various learning theories, such as the activity, behaviorism,
cognitivist, constructivism, distributed learning, situated cognition and engagement. I had prior
exposure to these theories, however, I have learnt about how these theories link with
technological incorporation. With the activity theory, students need to be engaged in activities,
and they learn better if these activities are computer-based or use any other technological device.
With behaviorism, students may be engaged in informative games/ activities with points/ high
score values which are interesting, motivating and fun. By intertwining technology and the
situated cognition, engagement and constructivist theories, students are allowed to learn in the
situation and construct meaning when actively engaged with technology. One should really
consider these theories and how to blend these with technology to provide the best learning
environment.

Another area in which I was enlightened is that of the ASSURE and ADDIE model lesson
plans. Previously, I had little or no knowledge about these forms of lesson plans which center on
technological integration. They are definitely formats that I will emulate, especially the ASSURE
model. Since it is that we are moving towards a classroom that effectively utilizes technology, we
will need a guide on how to do so. These plans involve the analysis of learners, objectives being
created, the use of technological devices/methodologies and most importantly, students
participation. I do believe that these are excellent guides for creating technologically-friendly,
and student-centered classrooms.
One of my greatest accomplishments of this course is that of creating a podcast, digital
story, webquest and a website. I do possess a love for technology, but had never thought that I
would be the author of any of the fore-mentioned. I really enjoyed creating them, and this is
really a huge step for me as I am now equipped with more interesting media for delivering
information to students. These are also things that I believe will make teaching more dynamic,
and I may even go further on to creating them as a hobby. I am very much grateful for this new
knowledge, and it will not only benefit the students I will encounter in the classroom, but also
myself personally. I faced many challenges an became overly frustrated most of the time, had
sleepless nights, however I can say that is was an educational venture for me.
Overall, after finishing with this course, I feel that I gained a variety of teaching skills that
will be helpful in other classes and in my future career. In addition, all the feedback that I got
from others will help me focus on the areas that I need to work on. For this reason, I am glad that
the final project was to do this assessment on the course because it allowed me to revise and
reflect on everything that I have done for this course. After I re-read and revised all my work, I
have to admit that seeing the work that I had completed for this class amazed me. Before the

course, it seemed that the workload was a lot, but now I understand how helpful it was to put
most of my ideas in written assignments. For example, the unit plan which consist of a lot. Then
the construction of a lesson, which could be used by another teacher who was clueless about
what my plans were for the lesson. Therefore, after this course and overall semester, I feel more
prepared to continue in the field I have ventured.