Initial Reflection

In my 26 years as an educator, I have worked as a mathematics and programing instructor, computer applications instructor, building technology coordinator and integrator, and now secondary technology integration specialist. I would like to develop additional skills and experiences in leadership, organization and administration so that I may be more effective in my current role and prepared for other opportunities that may arise. I feel that this program combining the educational quality of Johns Hopkins and best practice of ISTE will be the best possible fit for this to occur.

Technology and Curriculum are both best served, when they are intricately connected with one another, like they are on the Twins hat I'm wearing at right. Technology should not be used for technology's sake, but to enhance instruction and student learning. I believe that students should learn by actively engaging with the material, whether imparted by the teacher, the textbook, or the online resource in the palm of their hand. Teachers don't have to "give up intellectual authority in the room," but they should acknowledge that tools like "WolframAlpha" contain more facts and figures than they do! Teachers can be co-learners, assisting students with making connections to their learning and other learners! My current role is as a technology integration specialist. I consider myself a "network sherpa" assisting staff by carrying the tools and techniques to enhance their instruction and student learning.

My current position has allowed me to help advance the use of Web 2.0 technologies to enhance learning and instruction in a variety of ways. Our district uses the Community of Practice model for district-wide professional development which has allowed me to advance my leadership skills. In my first year, I lead a group of middle and high school teachers in the use of various Web 2.0 technologies, including blogs, wikis, Google Applications, podcasting and Voicethread. This year and last, I helped to lead an effort in my district to explore 1:1 laptop learning. Last year, 20 teachers explored the possibility of teaching in a 1:1 environment, researching, conducting site visits and planning for a possible pilot. This year, those same teachers are implementing the pilot with a group of 155 students at the 8th grade level. This school year I have also been involved with Sheryl Nussbaum-Beach and Will Richardson's Powerful Learning Practice. Serving as a Fellow, responsible for assisting two teams of teachers, I have gained valuable insight into the shifts in learning made possible by leveraging new technologies to enhance learning.

One of the key indicators of successful technology integration is the involvement and support of administrators. Through their modeling of proper pedagogy, assessment of effective instruction, and budgetary support, they play a vital role. It is my hope that my involvement in the Johns Hopkins/ISTE program will help me grow as an educator to meet the needs of the students and families I serve.