Module 3

This module has helped me think about the impact of the Internet on my students’ learning in the following ways….

It made me expand my thinking in how to incorporate technology use in my classroom but it also makes me nervous about giving so much freedom of internet access to my students. I'm used to providing my students with a list of websites they are allowed to visit and then requiring them to remain on these sites. There's so much out there on the internet that it makes me nervous that the students will stumble upon something inappropriate. Letting go of some of that control is one of my teaching goals this year.

Module 2

This Module has helped me think about using standards, CFQs, or formative assessment in the following ways:

Now that I have begun the process of planning a unit really from the end result first, I am able to see the bigger picture more clearly. The focus of my unit is clarified and more useful in planning my everyday lessons. I'm feel more focused on what I want my students to be able to achieve overall rather than step by step which can seem cumbersome and honestly a little pointless at times. I feel that not only will the purpose of the unit and day to day activities be more engaging and understandable to me as a teacher, but also will flow into my students' perception of their school experience.

Module 1

•How can projects help my students meet standards and develop 21st century skills?
Projects can help my students meet standards by allowing them to work on several standards at the same time. Therefore, it allows students to focus on the broader picture rather than narrowing their focus to one standard at a time. 21st century skills will be developed by allowing students the chance to be problem solvers and use technology in their own ways.

•How can I use projects to enhance student learning?
Projects can enhance student learning by allowing them to become more creative and really show what they know in a different way than pencil and paper assignments. Students will be able to use their mulitple intelligences to apply new learning skills in real world situations.

This module has made me think about my role as an instructional designer in the following ways...
It made me think outside the box. Instead of using the traditional linear way of teaching and designing lessons/units, I now feel comfortable exploring different designs that increase student motivation and achievement. I'm just as excited about being creative in planning the unit as I am in allowing the students to be creative during the unit.