Reflecting on Managing Educational Technology
If you've been keeping with my blog, you probably already know that I am seeking an endorsement in Computer Specialist. On the first day of this particular class, titled Managing Educational Tech Services, I left with my head spinning and very overwhelmed. I wasn't sure if I was going to make it through the class! I wasn't sure if I would even have the energy, especially since I was encountering new experiences with learning new curriculum for a new grade level. I was having some major behavioral problems with some students from day one, so I knew this was going to be a challenging year. Then to learn about our final project, on our first day of school literally drove me to the edge. Luckily, with great support from family, colleagues and friends I was talked off the ledge. However, I don't regret tackling this class. I have learned so much more about laws like, FERPA, CIPA, and IDEA.
I occasionally discuss topics from this class with other teachers. I'm constantly sharing my thoughts and ideas on what I have learned from the articles. We often joke and laugh about the fact that some of the information in these laws is common sense. Well, apparently it's not common sense to all. A week after we discussed CIPA, I attend a union meeting and we (teachers) were told to make sure we are not posting any pictures of our students on our personal social media accounts. I guess if we are being reminded of this, it's not common sense! The nice thing was that I was asked to briefly speak to our members about CIPA and FERPA since I had read so much about these topics in my class! So I felt like I was taking what I had learned and sharing the wealth.
As reflect on this course, I have learned that managing a classroom is difficult but managing the students while they are using digital tools is even more challenging. However, in order to teach in the 21st century classroom, we must address these issues, be more informed, inform our parents and teach our students be responsible digital citizens.
I occasionally discuss topics from this class with other teachers. I'm constantly sharing my thoughts and ideas on what I have learned from the articles. We often joke and laugh about the fact that some of the information in these laws is common sense. Well, apparently it's not common sense to all. A week after we discussed CIPA, I attend a union meeting and we (teachers) were told to make sure we are not posting any pictures of our students on our personal social media accounts. I guess if we are being reminded of this, it's not common sense! The nice thing was that I was asked to briefly speak to our members about CIPA and FERPA since I had read so much about these topics in my class! So I felt like I was taking what I had learned and sharing the wealth.
As reflect on this course, I have learned that managing a classroom is difficult but managing the students while they are using digital tools is even more challenging. However, in order to teach in the 21st century classroom, we must address these issues, be more informed, inform our parents and teach our students be responsible digital citizens.
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