The Start of a Beautiful Friendship

14 weeks ago I embarked on a journey of epic proportions. With limited knowledge in the world of technology and digital media, I entered into the first day of my EME 5050 Technology for Educators course at the University Of Central Florida with trepidation, hesitation, but above all, determination. I knew that I was on the verge of something great, an opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and dabble into severely uncharted territories in the form of blogs, wikis, diigos and prezis, just to name a few. I knew that this journey would not be the easiest, as learning something for the first time rarely is. The difficulties I encountered along the road though, were so very beneficial to me and experiences that, while looking back on definitely made me stress more than Game 6 of the 2011 World Series between the St. Louis Cardinals and the Texas Rangers, I would not trade for the world. Each experience taught me something new not only about technology, but about myself as well; most notably my will to persevere.

The very first week of class, we were given a link to Dr. McLeod’s blog. In that blog, Dr. McLeod posed a question. The first time I read the question, it was just that; a question. Little did I know that it would serve as my Jiminy Cricket throughout the entire duration of this course. Each time I began to wonder why it was I needed to perform a particular assignment when it was so difficult and I could just as easily do it the old fashioned pen and paper way and be done much faster, Dr. McLeod’s question whispered through my head much like a conscious. Each time I thought about taking the easier route, I reverted back to that bigger question; Are we doing was is best for our students, or are we doing what is most convenient for us?
 In my very first blog, I stated the following;
For some, like myself, technology can be somewhat of a foreign concept. The basics? I have them down pact. Typing? I can do it with my eyes closed. Create web casts and blogs? Ok, now we are starting to enter into uncharted territory. I will admit, the unknown aspects of technology make me nervous, and it would be extremely convenient for me to stick to what I know and only that. But I can tell you this here and now, that is something I will never let myself do. If I find myself all of the sudden comfortable and content, then something needs to change.
Had I chosen the path of simply sticking to what I know, rather than choosing challenge over convenience, I would have missed out on so very much. Through this course, I have learned how to formulate excel spread sheets, which will enable me to efficiently calculate grades and assignments for years to come. I have designed and composed a curriculum page, complete with lesson plans, student geared directions, and a digital storytelling project, all of which will heighten the engagement level of my students while enhancing their overall learning environment. I have created a Prezi, which has since stolen my love and affection away from power points (sorry about that power point!). I have learned about the ins and outs of digital media, and the ways in which we can integrate it into our curriculum. I have discovered that there is a whole world of online resources freely available to educators that will expand our students horizons, fully engage them in our lessons, and most importantly, prepare them for the 21^st century. I have become a blogger, which I never, ever, thought I would say, but which has enabled me to share all that I have learned with you, and learn a great deal that I did learn, from you as well.

I have learned so much within these 14 weeks, but I know there is still so much that I need to learn. I plan on jumping at every professional development opportunity that comes my way regarding digital media and technology. I plan on continuing to learn from my professors, fellow educators, and my students. Most importantly, I plan on continuing to select challenges over convenience.

14 weeks ago, the relationship between myself and technology started off as that of strangers. Since then, we have built a friendship…a friendship I foresee continuing to grow for years to come.

Digital Storytelling Sample..."Once Upon a Light Year..."

Digital Storytelling example; “Once Upon a Light Year…”

Digital Storytelling projects are engaging way to get students actively involved in the storytelling process. Not only does it enhance the overall learning environment by adding a hands on, interactive component, it integrates several technological aspects. Digital Storytelling enables the student to take ownership of his or her assignment by enabling them to plan, implement and create their desired digital story outcome. This form of storytelling invites and embraces the creativity of our students, making it one of my new favorite classroom projects.

Below you will find a link to my sample Digital Storytelling project. My wiki curriculum page is designed for 2^nd grade students, and has them creating a digital storytelling project on a “strange new planet” that they have just come across. On the curriculum page is a set of guidelines that may help them plan out their story, and the information they will need.

I am still working on embedding the sound within my Prezi. Please let me know of any suggestions for improvements that you may have!

https://5050eme.wikispaces.com/
https://5050eme.wikispaces.com/Digital+Storytelling+Sample