Most can recall a time in which they responded to the following question: “What do you want to be when you grow up.” Through this years, this answer commonly changes, but it is always based on the premise of looking forward. Whether we are responding to a new itch or further pursuing what we consider to be our passion, we are always looking for what’s next.
This drive to look beyond has been further assisted by the advancements in technology, as communication is faster and more widespread than ever before. Some of the advancements in technology are designed to improve already established technologies, while others have changed that way people engage in a task. The comparison would be a larger multi-touch screen versus the original introduction of the iPhone. As people, we develop in a similar manner, as some of our growth is a response to particular mandates, while other pursuits are to learn something previously unfamiliar, and in turn more about ourselves.
When I initially joined the Michigan State University Educational Technology Program in 2010, I was in search for an experience that could further define who I was as a teacher. As I worked through the Masters of Arts in Educational Technology (MAET) process, I have always look forward to the start of new class, as the conversations allowed me to rekindle my interest in this field. Furthermore, it allowed me to refocus my aim on creating a learning environment that was both rich in content and engaging in design.
Accomplishing this has not always been an easy task, as there is a balance between what content is being taught and the way in which a teacher presents it. A classmate of mine in the 2011 summer MAET program said is best when she reflected that teaching is “a science studied and an art performed.”I try to consider this approach when I create lessons that are dynamic and move the students forward in their learning.
Although this approach has allowed me to develop as an educator, I am always looking for new ways to hone my craft. When questions regarding pedagogical techniques or the content I am teaching arise, I often step into a state of exploration, commonly using technological tools to assist me. I believe is one of the greatest strengths of technology for learning, as the internet has created an environment in which an exponential amount of ideas are shared every second, minute and hour in the day. However, due to the vastness of the resource, students and teachers need to have an idea how to navigate through and apply what they find.
In the past couple of years, I assisted fellow staff members and students in their quest to apply technology in their teaching and learning. This is where my studies in the MAET program has best served me. Technology is a presence in our society and a lot of people want to harness it in education, but do get overwhelmed or even uninterested when the purpose of use is not clear. These are the conversations I enjoyed the most with people in my educational community.
Upon completing the MAET program, I have pondered where the best use of my skillset is. I enjoy the excitement learning how to apply a new tool can spark in my colleagues and wouldn’t be opposed to exploring educational technology in some official capacity. In addition to this, as an athletic director, I have enjoyed pursuing big ideas, while balancing policies and working to promote professional decorum. This may lead to me an educational administration pursuit, as such certification would open the doors for various other opportunities. One way that I know I could use my skills in this path is for the distribution of information, as important ideas can be communicated quickly in a widespread fashion.
Regardless, of what is next, I don’t think the new MAET feather in my cap can be discounted. We are living in a time in which technology is constantly evolving, as new devices and software are annually updated and made to be more powerful. Although various teaching methods can be effective, ignoring the use of digital tools disallows students to experience some of the most advanced methods of learning available. It is with this in mind that I feel somewhat responsible to serve as an ambassador of technology and facilitate discussions regarding about how to help kids learn using tools in the world around them. Frankly, I am not really sure when, where, or in what role I will be doing this, but I do know that I look forward to the future learning experiences.
Photo Credit: Joshua Vander Meulen
WHAT'S NEXT?
PERSONAL DISCOVERY THROUGH PROFESSIONAL PURSUITS
