My IT 443 Experience

This quarter I learned a lot about instructional technology! Technology in the classroom is a subject that I have not spent much time with and it wasn't until IT 443 (this course) that I really looked at technology as the “way of the future”. This course helped me realize just how much technology can transform a classroom into an inclusive learning environment for all students. I learned so much about the various web 2.0 tools available to enhance my instruction as well as the learning process for students. I think it is amazing that technology is breaking down the walls of a classroom and connecting students all across the world.

In my (future) classroom I am looking forward to using things such as Skype, Animoto, and Wordle (just to name a few) to make my (future) student’s education more meaningful. This course has really opened my eyes to the power of technology. I have also learned that technology is something that is doable and for the most part easy to learn (if I can do it, you can do it too).

One thing that I would still like to look into is how I can obtain some of these programs and devices at a reduced price or even better free. Technology for a whole class can be costly and I may end up in a district that doesn't have technology in the budget; so it is important that I am able to seek out ways to get these tools into my classroom. I would like to learn about some grants available for teachers as well as more (free) web 2.0 tools. As I continue to take steps to becoming a special education teacher I am hoping that technology becomes more and more available.

I am excited to continue to expand my technological horizon and implement the use of technology in future practicums and one day my own classroom. My IT 443 experience was very useful and I learned so much. 

Image Courtesy Of: 

Strickland, L. (n.d) Kid Sitting with a Tablet Image. (Clipart) Retrieved February 4, 2014,

from http://www.mycutegraphics.com/graphics/technology/kid-sitting-with-tablet.html