Week 6

 

    As we progress further and further into this course, I am solidifying my understanding that the inclusion of technology isn't as difficult as it may sound. If you take the time to think about what you want to do and describe your thoughts with as much detail as possible, then you will be led to almost exactly what you are looking for, or something close to it. For example, for the self-directed section, I wanted to focus on literacy and technology. As a special ed teacher, I do a lot of reading instruction, and incorporating technology is difficult. Especially when following programs like OG or Wilson literacy. But my searches brought me back to some of the AI tools we have used in past classes, specifically Padlet.

    Now, the first time I used Padet, I had no idea what I was doing. But I learned that it was a discussion board where we could post and view information from other people's posts. How could something like this be introduced to my class? Well, I figured using the discussion board to share thoughts about self-selected home reading that students are assigned for homework each night would be perfect. It would allow students to practice summarizing, reflecting, and responding to each other's questions, while also getting a glimpse into other books they may enjoy. 

Utilizing Padlet and working through my transformation scenario has continued to provide new opportunities for students to collaborate, share their learning, and utilize fun technology in doing so. We are beginning to build student autonomy with regard to their assessments by providing a selection of tools in which they can choose, while also being able to bring their own tools to the table. Each lesson has the chance to be completely unique in structure and outcome.