Final Reflection

Overall I have found this course very overwhelming but at the same time a beneficial and worthwhile experience. While at times I got frustrated at the number of emails and passwords, I am glad that I have completed it and am now more aware of the numerous tools that are available.In this day and age, one of the hardest things for a teacher is to engage the students. They have grown up in an environment where they have always had the internet, always had a mobile phone and could always get everything at the click of a button. It is very difficult to get them to read a book, pick up a textbook and just answer questions on what they have read (as was the old way of teaching). Teaching is changing at a rapid rate. I am only 2 years out of university and what I learnt and studied at university has already been surpassed. This course has given me a number of interactive tools to engage and challenge my students. It has reinforced my belief that they are only tools to be used and if used effectively can definitely enhance the learning and schooling experience of the students.I think this a worthwhile course for all teachers. Even if not everything is applicable in the classroom, as I did not find all tools useful, I think that being aware of what students are using and aware of is important, especially when it comes to social networking. At the same time, I think the educational revolution that is grounded in technology is a combined teacher/ student effort, where at times the lines are blurred as to who is the student and who is the teacher. Students are a valuable resource that are not always used to their potential. We sometimes assume that we as teachers always know everything. Content wise this may be true, but for tools such as the internet and the number or sites out there, it cannot be guaranteed. While this course has given us an insight to what is possible I believe the students will surpass our expectations when using these tools and create something that is unbelievable, as they explore the different sites and what they have to offer. As we embrace a new more consistent approach to elearning in the classroom I am excited by the possibilities.