Personal GAME Plan

It is important for teachers to be self-directed learners and model it for students so that they can learn to be self-directed learners. To succeed in the digital society that we live in, it is crucial that students can teach themselves new information and skills that they are required to know.

Technology is constantly evolving, and both students and teachers are expected to use the tools available to complete tasks. When looking at the International Society for Technology in Education web site, there were many National Education Standards for Teachers (NETS-T) that I feel comfortable with, but there are others that I do not feel as confident or proficient. In order to improve on the standards, I have developed a personal GAME plan to strengthening my confidence.

Goals:
The first step for my self-directed learning is to set goals so that I can improve on the NETS-T where I am less confident. The first NETS-T that I need to improve on is 2C: "Develop technology-enriched learning environments that enable all students to pursue their individual curiosities and become active participants in setting their own educational goals, managing their own learning, and assessing their own progress" (www.iste.org). It is important that students learn to be self-directed learners for success in their future and become continual learners (Cennamo, Ross, & Ertmer, 2009, p. 2). I want to help them become self-directed learners. The second NETS-T that I need to improve on is 5C: "Evaluate and reflect on current research and professional practice on a regular basis to make effective use of existing and emerging digital tools and resources in support of student learning" (www.iste.org). Technology can enhance student learning and make learning content easier, so I need to take more time to research and locate technology tools that I can use in my classroom to support student learning.

Action:
In order to meet my goals, I need to take action. In order for students to take advantage of the technology tools available, I need to give them more opportunities to explore on their own. I need to develop more activities that give students the freedom to choose what they want to explore and use tools that they want to use in order for them to teach themselves skills ans set their own goals. Most students are not accustomed to setting their own educational goals because they are usually set for them. I will take more time utilizing the computers that all the students in my classroom have for lessons. I will use tools such as blogs, wikis, and podcasts for activities that address content learning. Students will be able to use these tools to meet the goals that I have set for them, but they will be in control of their own learning and demonstrating what they have learned or discovered through the product that they have created. They will have the opportunity to manage their own progress, learning, and goals through Web 2.0 tools. In order for me to make good use of the tools that can be used to enhance learning, I need to take more time researching the tools that are available for use in the classroom. By evaluating and researching the digital tools available, I will be able to find tools that will enhance student learning in my classroom.

Monitor:
To monitor my progress on achieving my goals I will use a reflective journal to record my observations of the students in my classroom. I will also collaborate with my colleagues and technology coordinator in my district to share what I am doing in my classroom with technology and hear about the tools that they have used in their classrooms. Working in groups to share ideas is an excellent opportunity for us to learn from each others' strengths with technology (Cennamo, Ross, & Ertmer, p. 91). Another way that I will monitor my progress is by observing what my students are learning in the classroom and listening to their feedback. I can also post on my blog for other educators to read and share their suggestions on improving my classroom practices.

Evaluate and Extend:
To determine whether I have met my goals, I will look at the progress of my students. If I have effectively taught the content to my students through the use of technology and helped them become better self-directed learners, then I have met my goals. I will also examine their progress in reading and writing in my classroom and on standardized tests to determine if I have been effective in teaching hem through technology. I will be able to determine what I have succeed in and in which areas I still need to improve. I can extend what I have learned by sharing with my colleagues through collaboration and continuing to research more ways that I can use technology in my classroom.

I am excited to use my skills with technology in the classroom and teach my students the amazing possibilities that are out there for them with technology. In order for my students to be prepared for our digital society, I need to guide them to become self-directed learners and effectively use technology.

References:
Cennamo, K., Ross, J. & Ertmer, P. (2009). Technology Integration for Meaningful Classroom Use: A Standards-Based Approach. (Laureate Education, Inc., Custom ed.). Belmont, CA: Wadsworth, Cengage Learning.
International Society for Technology in Education (2008) http://www.iste.org.