MODULE+6

=ePortfolio and Field Experience=

DESCRIPTION:

This week's module focused on thinking, planning, and reflection. I spent a great deal of time thinking about my philosophy of technology instruction while writing my short paper. I also spent a great deal of time reflecting on what I have done, and considering my action plan for satisfying NETS:TF.

IMPACT:

Several weeks ago I was presented with an opportunity to assist with writing an ARRA grant proposal for my building. Having already begun to consider what I would need to satisfy my NETS:TF, I was very aware of the implications of this opportunity. I jumped on board, and spent two days gaining a tremendous amount of insite not only into writing a techology grant, but in utililizing the terms and standards that this course has taught me. Last year's rejected proposal stated nothing of NETS:T, ISTE, or implications for implementing higher level multimedia. I also had the opportunity to read through those grant proposals submitted by other buildings within our district last year, and I am confident that my experiences in this class enabled me to write a proposal that far surpassed any other ARRA grant proposal in my district.

INTENT:

This ARRA grant is my silver-lined cloud for both NETS:T and NETS:TF. This grant will give me opportunities to work with a team of four teachers. We will not only implement new technologies into our own classrooms, but we will provide professional development to other staff within our district. We will collaborate with a local childcare facility and teach technology enriched mini lessons to the children. We will participate in next year's E-Tech conference, presenting to our colleagues those technology infused lessons that we have implemented during the year. We will be given a technology coach with which we will work to not only co-teach, but to integrate technologies that offer students opportunites to utilize higher order thinking skills and collaboration over real world issues.

I have also spoken with the building principal, who has agreed to allow Chip, Lori, and myself to take over the duties of designing and maintaining the school website for next year.

STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES: I think my biggest strength is having become involvedin the ARRA grant for my building. I think the weakness here is the still looming possibility that we could not be awarded the grant. If we are not awarded the grant, I will have to rely on plan B. This means that I will need to formulate a plan B for how I will satisfy NETS:TF. Though the grant will offer me all the opportunities I need to satisfy my field experiences, many of the NETS:TF requirements can be satified by simply putting forth a little bit more time and effort into my building. And quite honestly, having a plan B isn't a bad idea for any of us.