Katherine+Coffey

This is Katie's page.

This is the html page that I made for my ISTC301 course in Spring 2012.

This is the __**Voki**__ I created, which discusses the importance of technology standards and my views on technology in the classroom.

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Below you will find my reflection for the __**Learning Styles Survey**__ and the __**CAST W**____**ebsite**__ and __**Universal Design for Learning**__:

Through completing the learning styles survey, the information confirmed what I already know about how I learn best. In fact, the survery revealed that I am a visual/ nonverbal learner, which means that I prefer learning through the use of visuals, diagrams, and film. I knew this before completing the survey because when studying or remembering information or concepts, I often recall the images or diagrams before I can remember the words associated with the pictures. The survey provided me with some study skills that I did not previously consider. For instance, I never thought to mark up the margin of my textbook with images or to make charts to organize mathematical concepts. I believe if I use this strategy now I will retain more information because the image will help me recall the information.

The CAST website had an abundance of information regarding Universal Design for Learning or UDL. I really liked that the website took the principles and standards of UDL and applied them to teaching all individuals, no matter if they are diverse or disabled, about how to use this structure throughout a classroom environment. I can see myself using the lesson and book builder in my future classroom. In Chapter 5, I learned a great deal about breaking down goals in order to consider their true purpose. When I look at county and state goals in creating lessons and activities in my future classroom, I want to have a deep understanding behind its purpose, which will open the door for differentiation. I like the approach that CAST sets throughout their website because it considers all students’ needs regardless of their background. The approaches and tools they have allow all learners to have access to this information. I would like to know how I can take the information found on CAST and effectively use it in my classroom so that all students can learn.

The two activities opened my eyes to new information, but I wish the activities were as engaging as the rest of the website. They provided the individual with helpful information, but I can imagine students who are auditory or kinesthetic learners would struggle with taking something from it. I did not gain any new insights from these activities, but like the survey, it confirmed what I already know about my strengths and talents.

Below you will find my __**Assistive Technology**__ reflection:

Before visiting the websites and watching the videos, I had thought that assistive technology always dealt with computers and tablets or, in other words, the most update software or technology. I had held such a narrow definition of what technology can look like in the classroom. Although computers play a major role in assistive technology, I realized that assistive technology can be simple, but it must allow students to easily access the material and concepts being learned. In fact, a peer in one of my classes relied on assistive technology while in school. This particular student used a WordSmart (I am not sure if this is the right name) keyboard to complete many of his assignments. It had a keyboard similar to a computer keyboard and a small screen. I also believe it could be connected to a computer to print the student’s work. The device seemed to help the student express their ideas in a clear fashion. He did not seem to struggle with using the device. The student was completing the same work as his peers, but just in a different format. The purpose of the lesson was maintained, but the student achieved the goal or objective in a way that suited their needs.

There were numerous products, sites, and resources that impressed me while exploring the different videos and websites. When I explored some of the products, I was surprised to see how simple, but powerful they are in the life of the person who has a disability. For instance, one video I watched showed an individual’s home that had modifications, such as appliances lower to the floor, various sizes of countertop space, and a handle on the side of the refrigerator. I realized that products do not have to be complicated, but can be simple modifications to already created products. Some products I can see using in my classroom include a recorder, magnify glass of different sizes and shapes, and book stand. I also really enjoyed the Wiggle Works site. I thought the site provided a great way for different students to have access to the reading through various methods. While the students read the story, they could write or draw a sentence, create a space for their own words, hear the story read to them, color or change the story, or focus on the sounds of various words. I loved that the site opened the door for all students, no matter how they learn (visual, auditory, etc.) or what obstacles they may face, to read. Thus, I hope to remember both of these resources as I become a classroom teacher.

For students with diverse learning needs, technology tells them that they can and will learn. If they have the desire to learn and discover, they will, with the help of technology, achieve inside as well as outside of the classroom. Technology will be the key in opening the door for a whole new world of possibilities for these students. Technology also tells these students that they can communicate with others around them, despite their disability. In addition, technology tells these students that nothing can hold them back from learning. As I prepare to be a classroom teacher, I want to always remember this. I do not want to ever limit my students from learning something new. I believe it is imperative to get to know one’s students well to understand how they learn best. Once this knowledge is acquired, I want to use these website and resources to help all my students, whether they are in special education or not, learn.

This is my __**Glogster**__ for Maria Montessori, who was an influential person in the world of Education.

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Below you will find my reflection on __**Virtual Field Trips**__ in the classroom:

I had never completed a virtual field trip before this experience. I wish I would have had this when I was a student because I believe I would have benefitted from it greatly. I imagined myself walking through a museum or a gallery as I explored these websites. The questions and websites provided a great guide as I explored the different websites. In fact, I enjoyed exploring the Whaling Museum website. I liked that there was actual documents, paintings, maps, and drawings embedded into the program. These resources gave me a more in depth look at the concept I was exploring. This activity would be great for visual, kinesthetic, and auditory learners. For instance, visual learners have the opportunity to view and read different documents. Auditory learners would benefit from watching the video, and kinesthetic learners would enjoy making the nautical knots. I would highly recommend this activity, and would also want it to be used in my future classroom. In my opinion, this activity would be best if students completed it independently or outside of school, but I believe it would be important to model this activity when students complete it the first time. It could be used in a learning center, homework, or additional exploration. One concern is that some students may not have access to a computer at home. So, I would recommend providing some class time or giving students information to visit their local library. A virtual field trip could be used for gifted and talented students who want to explore a topic further or for students who finish their work early. The possibilities and opportunities for students to learn more about a topic, with the help of a virtual field trip, are endless.

Below you will see my **__Digital Story__** about the Life Cycle of a Butterfly.

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Here is my __**Final Reflection**__ for ISTC301:

If a principal asked that I explain my beliefs on technology, I would emphasize the importance and need for technology in my classroom. It is imperative that technology be present in schools as both a resource and tool for students and teachers. Schools must prepare their students for the demanding and evolving world in which we live in. As technology continues to become a part of our everyday lives, students must have the opportunity to use a wide variety of technology, which will open the door to a bright and successful future. This not only allows for a new way of learning, but it also engages the students in the material being taught. Technology can also be used as a part of one’s universal design for learning (UDL). Whether the student is considered an auditory, visual, or kinesthetic learner, they will be able to access the material with the help of technology. On the other hand, there must be a balance in using technology. The content of the lesson and concepts to be taught must be the focus, not the technology itself. Consequently, it is extremely valuable to the students when technology is incorporated into the classroom.
 * After looking at my response at the beginning of the semester, I do not believe my views have changed about technology in education, but I think this course confirmed the beliefs I had. In fact, I said, “I believe that technology should be present in all classrooms. As our world becomes more dependent on technology in our everyday lives, students have to be well prepared for the demands of being an active individual in society. A balance must exist between the new material and the technology tools used.“ I agree with my previous statement, and believe that technology should not be over emphasized, but should be a tool to enhance the experience and engagement of the learner. Technology could be used to explore a topic further, research a concept in detail, and assist a student who is having difficulty with a topic through providing online tools, manipulatives, or practice. In //Digital Nation//, I learned a great deal about the effect of technology on the individual. Technology can further emphasize our ability to multi-task, which can harm the learner. On the other hand, the learner has the chance to experience learning in a whole new way with the help of individual computers, Promethean boards, and computer games. This example shows us that there must be a balance with technology in the classroom. **