Amy Kirk

In this module I learned about digital natives (younger students) and digital immigrants (older students) and how younger and older students have different agendas and goals when learning. Adults as students want to know the value of the course and how the content will expand and grow their career. I intend to be mindful about the audience I teach and alter my lessons and curriculum to address learning needs.  I will also continue to be mindful about adding a variety of ways to learn in different ways to address all learning styles.

In this module, technology options were addressed and discussed. The module provided a good overview of tablets vs. laptops. Putting students first is a priority and setting clear rules and expectations are an important aspect of using technology in the classroom.  I believe technology options can vary greatly depending on the district or business in which they are being used.  I intend to have a technology plan devised and implement it with my students.

In this module, I learned how to embrace smartphones in education by allowing them for use on applications such as Nearpod, Quizlet, Socrative, Kahoot, and polling. Although, I feel like these applications can also be used on student devices through the school, I do think they may serve well as a back-up plan if needed.  Phones tend to be distracting, but I intend to find ways to incorporate them at times. 

In this module, I learned that there are reading and writing learners who absorb information through writing notes and completing practice tests.  I learn this way.  I also learned that adults struggle with absorbing knowledge compared to children, so the learning needs to be clear, have value, and purpose.  I agree with this statement because as I age, it does get more challenging to learn content.  I intend to continue to seek ways to integrate learning for all learners, visual, auditory, reading and writing, and kinesthetic.  

In this module, I learned about video and recording software types, such as Camtasia, Loom, and Synthesia.  I also learned about simulation software, such as NurseSim, Circuit Lab, and Cisco Packet Tracer.  Lastly, I learned about accessibility tools for presentations and intend to start using them for all of my presentations.

In this module, I learned about the rubric for e-learning tool evaluation through Western University.  This rubric helps to determine accessibility, functionality, technical, mobile design, privacy and protection, social presence, teacher presence, and cognitive presence to be determined for each tool.  I intend to use this rubric when evaluating e-learning tools. 

In this module, I learned about some new quiz and game generators such as Quiz Star and Wondershare.  I also learned about an online educator community called Teachertube.com.  I learned about fair use information and laws, which are important to know and understand when seeking content.  I intend to use and try the applications and possibly seek e-book alternatives.

In this module, I learned about presentation tools.  I have used PowerPoint and now use Canva most frequently.  Using presentations with various forms of media helps increase learning and understanding.  I intend to use other tools mentioned, such as Prezi, Adobe Captivate, and Slideshare in my classes. 

The vocabulary presented in the module was helpful.  I intend to practice using it when I am speaking to my students so that I can become more fluent in technology language.  Using technology helps to differentiate the content to reach learners and increase learning.

I learned about ways AI is used, which includes AI in finance.  I hadn't thought of this as being a capability.  I know that AI continues to face issues with ethics, context, quality, security, and more, but it does appear that it is gaining use and steam in technological advances, especially medicine.  I intend to continue to seek information and expand my knowledge in AI so I can help better prepare my students for their future jobs and roles in our community and society.