1. What new learning occurred for you in this course?
- I learned how to use Excel spreadsheets. This is an amazingly powerful tool for teachers that I have previously never utilized. I will continue to use Excel in my classroom.
2. Indirectly, what did your students and/or other teachers learn from this course?
- Indirectly my students are part of a much more organized classroom because all of the information I need can be accessed with the touch of a button. Also since much of the unnecessary paper work has been cut from my routines, I have more time to plan effective and exciting lessons.
3. What did you learn that will help you address diverse student needs and promote equitable access to current technologies?
- I think having the ability to group students by scores will definitely help improve classroom instruction. It makes it far easier to see who understands the concept and who needs more instruction.
4. How would you design professional development for other teachers who are interested in expanding their knowledge and skills related to the goals of this course?
- I would provide a workshop for teachers who were interested in time saving tips. There isn't a teacher in the world that isn't looking for more time. In this workshop I would present an overview of Excel, spreadsheets, and databases. Then I would have them create a simple example. After the example teachers would have time to create an artifact they could actually use in their classroom while I helped individuals who needed assistance.
5. How has this course enabled you to take a leadership role in your school or district?
- As I stated earlier, this course has enabled me to be a part of the district's data committee. It also allows me to help other teachers when they need a hand with organizing their paperwork. To be honest, most of the teachers at my school love me because I can help them in a pinch which usually isn't the case with the technology specialist.
