Reflective Essay

     At the beginning of class, my score on the ISTE recommended foundations in technology for teachers was 38.  I was relatively pleased with myself because I felt that it was a good score.  Now, at the end of this course, my score is a 52. 

     The more I progressed through the assessment this time, the more I wished that I could change the original score so that it would be more reflective of the knowledge I gained (and had at the beginning).  Compared to what I know now, I should have scored myself lower on several items. 

I realize that my initial score was inflated because I did not have a clear understanding of what each standard entailed.  This time around, with a better understanding of what each goal entailed, I was hesitant to give myself full credit for some items. For example, I initially indicated that I could fully “demonstrate knowledge of equity, ethics, legal, and human issues concerning use of computers and technology.”  Although both scores are the same (before and after), I was unaware of numerous issues and have now gained insight and awareness of these.  I am able to defend my position on major technology issues as well as identify and contemplate possible solutions to these problems.

Although the A section score was virtually the same, I gained 5 points on section B and 9 points on section C.  I have just begun to use technology to quantitatively assess my speech/language students, and have already started using technology for communication with students and teachers.  On section C, which the area of greatest improvement, I am very proud that I was able to score all 15 points.  Before this class, I considered the frill and practice software used at my school to be an example of successful technology integration.  I mow realize that it is imperative to teach technology in ways that are relevant and engaging to the learner.  Simply, using technology for technology’s sake is not a responsible approach to integration.

Eventually, I would like to have the opportunity to use imaging devices, other than a scanner, to become more proficient in their use.  Although I have limited experiences with them, I don’t feel comfortable enough, with the devices, to use them in my lessons.  Additionally, I would like to expand on a goal in section B: demonstrate awareness of resources for adaptive assistive devices for students with special needs.  There is a child on caseload that will shortly be receiving assistive technology software and hardware.  Therefore, I will need to be trained so that I can properly integrate it into his therapy sessions.