Week+2-+Part+2.3+EDLD+5362+Course+Assignment+Reflections


 * __EDLD 5362 INFORMATIONAL SYSTEMS MANAGEMENT COURSE REFLECTION__**

//**Self-Assessment**// In the beginning, I was unaware that there was a Long Range Plan. At first, I thought there was little I could do to make an impact, but now I have taken all of these courses within the program, I now feel more confident that I can make a lasting impression. The STaR chart also looks different to me now that I know what the key areas mean. I will be able to fill it out with understanding later this month.

//**Learn as a Learner**// The first week's assignment was to interview a teacher with at least 20 years experience. I was able to interview a teacher with 33 years experience, which was just in time as he is retiring this year with motivation from a Early Retirement Incentive. He is from a small country town and when he tells a story of him growing up or when he first started teaching, it's humorous, yet interesting. However, to see someone teach with longetivity, but still keep up with the technological times is impressive because Beldarrain (2006) said that time is of the essence for both, learners and instructors, activities and content must be relevant and up to date. Week 2's assignment of Network Comparison such as School Rack and ePals was great. I told the other Tech Apps teacher about it and we decided to use ePals during our last six weeks. We are also going to do group wikis and blogs "...as collaborative spaces where students, teachers, and guests can build content together" (Richardson, 2005).

//**Lifelong Learning Skills**// Mr. Owen is a prime example of lifelong learning with all of the years of experience he has. As we continue to move towards project based assignments, will have to follow Boss and Krauss' (2007) suggestions for how teachers and students need for assessment will include components such as communicate with students and others about the project... to giving just-in-time feedback on student work as it develops, not just when completed. Week 5's final project assignment showcased the National and Texas Long Range Technology plans. I'm sure as we get closer to 2020, another set of long range goals will emerge.

//**References**// Beldarrain, Yoany. (2006). Distance Education Trends: Integrating new technologies to foster student interaction and collaboration. //Distance Education. 27,2.//139-153. Boss, Suzie & Krauss, J. (2007). Real Projects in a Digital World. //Principal Leadership. 8,4.// 22-26. Richardson, Will. (2005), Blog Revolution. //Technology & Learning. 26, 3//. 48.

//**Embedded Course Assignments**//