Getting in the GAME

Set Goals: Although all the NETS standards are important for teaching in the 21st century, I consider the indicators of standard 2. Design and Develop Digital-Age Learning Experiences and Assessments, a. design or adapt relevant learning experiences that incorporate digital tools and resources to promote student learning and creativity and standard 3. Model Digital-Age Work and Learning, a. demonstrate fluency in technology systems and the transfer of current knowledge to new technologies and situations (ISTE, 2008) to be of particular importance and as attainable goals at this time. Dr. Peggy Ertmer asserts that confidence is essential in integrating technology and that "it's OK not to know more than the kids if you're willing to learn from them" (Laureate, 2009) and thanks to our coursework, I feel quite able to succeed in these areas.

Take Action: One valuable piece of advice from real classroom teachers will certainly shape my actions and that is to "look to technology to support the lessons, not form it" (Laureate, 2009b). The key is to promote learning and creativity, which I can preform well if I remember to begin with the end of content-based learning in mind. This way my lessons not be forced or frivolous. When I do deem it appropriate to integrate, I will use a lesson template such as the one provided for the 'Daily Lesson GAME Plan' (Cennamo, Ross, & Ertner, 2009). Additionally, as I gain practice with new technologies in my remaining courses or upcoming staff development opportunities, I will brainstorm at least two current lessons that could be improved by the integration of this new knowledge.

Monitor Learning: In each unit of study, I will look back on the lessons where I applied the GAME plan and completed the sections entitled 'Monitor' and 'Evaluate' in order to determine my successes and areas that I need to improve upon. I will also compare notes with my colleague to get an unbiased opinion of the effectiveness of my lessons. Also I will share with him and other interested teachers strategies that worked well in my classes and teach my students ways they too can use these new technologies.

Evaluate and Extension: Every fall, teachers are asked to identify two professional objectives that complement our school improvement plan. What better way for me to keep track of my progress than to align my technology integration goals with my school-based goals? I know that I will be proud to invite my principal into my class to see the lessons I plan and how efficiently I am able to use technology tools for my own personal use. Aside from this official evaluation, I know that my own extension of my graduate work in the coming years through continuing learning and keeping abreast of new tools will be most important.

Cennamo, K., Ross, J., & Ertmer, P. . (2009). Technology Integration for Meaningful Classroom Use: A Standards Based Approach. Cengage Learning: Mason Ohio

ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education), 2008. accessed November 12, 2009. www.iste.org.

Laureate Education Inc. (2009). “Enriching Content Area Learning Experiences with Technology, Part 1.” Baltimore, MD: Laureate Education Inc.

Laureate Education Inc. (2009b). “Enriching Content Area Learning Experiences with Technology, Part 2.” Baltimore, MD: Laureate Education Inc.