Reflection

Reflection
Technology has become an essential element in teaching the curriculum in our classrooms. Teaching technology in the classroom is needed in order for educators to enhance student learning in this 21st century of technology. “Innovations in information technologies and assistive/adaptive technologies can be powerful tools for success in the classroom” (Bray, Brown & Green, 2004, p.2).
As a result of learning in this course I will make several adjustments in my curriculum that will include technology use. The Principles of Universal Design for learning guidelines has enabled me to change my lesson plans and use strategies that will help all learners. The one size fits all classroom will no longer exist in my lesson plans. “The goal of education in the 21st century is not simply the mastery of knowledge. It is the mastery of learning” (CAST, 2009). In the UDL guidelines I have learned how to use the three principles to make adjustments with my students. I will make adjustments on how I assess each student. I will begin by using a variety of assessments. Before, I began this course my assessments was simply a quiz or a test at the end of the chapter. Through UDL guidelines I have learned that there is a need for alternative assessments to identify the diverse learners in the class. “Students differ in the ways that they perceive and comprehend information that is presented to them” (CAST, 2009).
Differentiated instruction has allowed me to become knowledgeable of the technology usage that can be used in teaching students. Using technology can help assist learners with disabilities and all students. In my class assignments students will be allowed to present their assignment in a variety of ways, for example using the word processor that includes clip art, video taping their assignment, creating a wiki or a tape recorded assignments. In my social studies classes I have began to use Virtual Expeditions. Giving students this experience to tour other places was engaging for the students. My lesson plans will include the use of CD-ROM that includes interactive lectures and visual summaries of the lesson will help the diverse classroom of student to enhance their learning.
Finally, in this 21st century of technology all teachers will need to make adjustments to their curriculum to allow the students to experience and learn from using technology. Technology use is here to stay and teachers need to prepare and make accommodations in their classroom that will include technology use.