Technology and I have a love/hate relationship. I love technology because it helps make my life much easier. Since I began teaching 8 years ago, I have always used technology as part of my daily life at school. I am very comfortable with basic technology such as personal computers, Microsoft Office Suite, and navigating the Internet and databases for general use. I can also operate a projector, document camera, DVD players, and digital cameras with ease. Overall, I know enough just to get by- I don't need constant support for day-to-day tasks. I am always willing to read directions, call tech support, or seek out help from others with a stronger knowledge base.
Despite my strengths above, I have very limited exposure when it comes to more advanced technologies- especially those now being considered "web 2.0" tools. In fact, I am scared of the unknown which keeps me from trying new technology-related instructional tools. Before starting UNT, I'd never heard of a blog or a LiveBinder- all of these tools are new (and scary) to me. Other than being fearful of and under-exposed to technology, I am also limited in my technological vocabulary. At times, when I call for tech support, the operators have to explain things to me in more basic terms since I don't always understand the vocabulary being used.
In order to overcome my weaknesses, I will use my strengths. I am a learner by nature and enjoy reading and learning things on my own. If I can commit to ask for help, learning and reading about new technologies and Web 2.0 tools, I will become less fearful of technology and more knowledgeable on specific topics. Recently, I set a goal for myself that each week I will use technology in a lesson for 1 of the grades I deliver library lessons to. So far, I have taught the students how to conduct basic Internet searches using references in their books and created a Glog for the 7th graders to use. While it's a slow process, I know that if I continue to push myself to try new instructional tools, I will begin to become more comfortable with using them.
In order to improve upon my instructional strategies, I would like to learn more about free tools available to me. Already, I have used Glogster, Blogger, LiveBinder, DropBox, and eCove. I know there are so many more tools available to me (and my students) that will make my instruction engaging and prepare my students for the 21st century. I also hope to learn how to help teachers use instructional strategies and tools in their classrooms, too.
