#UWinDig 2020

By: Alexandra Meloche

I chose to dive into the Technologist Module. Integrating technology can take a lesson to the next level!. But, like many others, I can feel stuck on how to integrate technology in a meaningful way that is not just a substitution, but instead, is a modification or a redefinition. “Integrate technology” sounds simple, but if we want the technology to have a purpose in our classrooms, we need to take steps like the ones outlined in this module to make informed decisions.

I made an infographic using Canva. I spent time exploring the infographic templates and the available editing tools. I found this platform user-friendly. I did not feel restricted on the free version. I enjoyed using Canva and would recommend it!

My infographic below describes the five steps of the Design Thinking approach process. Before introducing the Design Thinking approach, the module provides four different definitions of digital literacies. I created my own definition included at the top of my infographic.

The first step is to empathize with your students. How might they react? What concerns could they have? In my placement, my students used online music composing platforms to create digital compositions. The older students were familiar with the technology, but many of the grade 9 students, like me, were learning how to use the technology. I found it easy to understand their questions, as I was learning too! Technology can be frustrating, so empathizing with your students will show them that you appreciate and value their feelings and reactions.

Technology must have a purpose. Determine a challenge in your classroom. For example, are your students having trouble conveying their thoughts through a written response? A possible solution might be a platform like Canva, where students can combine text and visuals But, before you implement a technology, you must consider your context and possible barriers. In my placement, students picked between two music softwares for their project. One student asked to use another software because it allowed him different functions. He completed the assignment using a platform that worked for his style and learning. The technology must be suitable, accessible, and appropriate for the learning. Is the technology helping, or is it another challenge for your students? Technology can be a key to success!

I had trouble relating to the prototype step. I do not see myself in a position where I will be creating new technological tools. There are an abundance of tools already available that meet my teaching needs. My take-away is the feedback. Get feedback from your students about the technology tool and apply it, then make sure you can meet curriculum expectations! After this prep work, you must have a game plan that illustrates how students will use the technology as a part of the lesson and learning experience – anticipate problems, consider IEPs, and identify learning curves!

I enjoyed exploring this module! It was informative and has set me up for success when I integrate technology into my classroom.

I read Ashley Hinck’s Digital Ghosts in the Modern Classroom. http://hybridpedagogy.org/digital-ghosts-modern-classroom/

My opinion of the author’s main message is that the classroom is modern and we, as educators, need to take responsibility for creating a modern digital classroom. I interpreted that embracing and using digital technologies in the classroom is not as hard as possibly assumed, and it is a great option for learning. Educators need to debunk the assumptions and expectations of digital technologies. Digital technologies should be used to enhance the classroom to create a modern classroom. Educators need to lead by example and show their students how to use these technologies in ways that are best for them. Not every digital technology is going to suit each student and if students have the technical knowledge and understanding, they can use technologies that enhance their learning. These technologies should simply be another learning tool.

The text opened my eyes about how “old” technologies limit student’s creativity. Before reading this article, I did not see PowerPoints, for example, as limiting and controlling (of a student’s creative choices). I use PowerPoint often and I choose from the variety of themes they offer. This article made me ask myself, what would happen to my PowerPoint presentation if I was able to make all creative decisions, if I could make my own theme.

I am a classic example of a student who “all they know of digital making are the template/shortcut platforms that have enabled them to participate in digital culture up until this point” as described in the article. I enjoy assignments that provide a lot of structure and that translated into my digital technology use. I did not often explore digital technologies that put me in the role of the “creator”. As a musician, I am constantly expressing myself through my music. Why not apply that same creative freedom to other areas and embrace these digital technologies that give me that opportunity?

As I created my artifact, I connected with the recurring theme in the article that modern digital technologies make students great makers, creators, and speakers. I realized that as I was creating my sketchnote, I was in complete control; I was the creator. I was creating a product exactly the way I wanted to. I was not following a script of steps. I used the shapes, colours, fonts, etc. that made sense for my learning. I think a sketchnote was a great artifact for me to help me get my feet wet in digital technologies for a modern classroom. Students should be encouraged to learn through methods that work for them! As an educator, I will create a learning space where my students can take control and be creative in their learning.