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=Reflection of Technology=
 * Many considerations need to be made with the use of technology in the classroom. One of those topics to consider is ethical and social issues. Teachers need to be aware of what students are doing while working with technology because safety and security are huge concerns for parents, teachers, and administrators. Teachers need to be cautious about what information is being put out to the public by the students through the use of the internet. Teachers also need to take the time to discuss and teach cyber safety and etiquette. Being proactive in the beginning of integrating technology into the classroom will help prevent issues and behavior problems as the year continues.


 * One of the main goals in integrating technology into the classroom is to make learning more authentic and engaging. It is important when using technology like the internet or web 2.0 tools, that these tools are used for academic development and continuing educations. It is important that the design of the technology activity correlates to both the Pennsylvania Department of Education standards but also the National Education Technology Standards. It is important that students view the internet and its resources as a learning tool rather than a toy. With standards clearly defined, assessment of the tasks can be done by meeting the defined standards for the activity. Other ways of assessing the activities done with Web 2.0 tools include but are not limited to: rubrics, checklists, discussions, observations, presentations, and demonstrations.


 * I personally feel that the integration of technology into the elementary curriculum is necessary and vital in preparing our students to be positive, productive, life-long learners. I know that if I teach them how to use PowerPoint that particular software will probably be obsolete in the next five years. But they will have learned key skills like using the “help” feature, troubleshooting/problem solving, design aspects, which can all be applied to new and developing technologies. These skills are all benefits to incorporating technology into the classroom now. I know I have learned about many web 2.0 tools this class and I am very eager to incorporate them, however, I am cautious when considering my limitations.


 * Some of the limitations that I am aware of include access to computers. Currently my classroom has 4 permanent computers set up. I can use these computers through differentiation in the various subject areas. Unfortunately, for whole class use, there is only one laptop cart that is to be shared by 14 classrooms. I will need to plan ahead greatly to use the laptops for an hour each day for one week. Other limitations may include registration fees, software costs, and possibly platform compatibility issues. Regardless of these issues I feel confident in my ability to integrate technology into my classroom. I am most comfortable integrating simple software like PowerPoint, Excel, and Word. I will continue to “play” with the various web 2.0 tools that I have been introduced to from this class. I also have the opportunity to “play” with a Mac laptop this summer. I am very eager to learn more about “Garage Band” and “IMovie” two tools that are on the student laptops.