CeDU 521 LoTI Information

We had a good introduction session using two truths and a lie. It's always fun to get to know others in this way. I've learned more tidbits about each of the class members.

The discussion we had about LoTI, Levels of Technology Implementation, was very beneficial. I've heard of the term before but hadn't really fully understood the various levels and implications of what really good integrated technology projects were to look like. I know getting the students in elementary grades to level six is extremely difficult, given the perameters we have to work with. I've always thought that integrating technology meant we had to create projects using multimedia and the computer. It's great to see the examples of where students actually used the computer more as a tool of their learning. When I took the LoTI survey it became apparent I'm not at the level where I'd like to be. showing me I'm around a level three on the whole. I'm better in some areas than others.

Learning about the different levels of what technology looks like via the LoTI PowerPoint presentation makes me aware of what I need to focus on. It really opens the door wider to what implementing technology really is and what I'm going to have to do to create more meaningful situations for learning. Right now I'd say I'm at a LoTI level of 2 to 3, project wise. I get to work with students from prekindergarten through grade five on a more consistent basis. One of the hurdles I face is time, as I'm 50% at two buildings and don't see the students on a daily basis. I get to see them about once a week which means I have shorter lessons. Some lessons do take quite a while to do, especially when I'm working on a unit and need to review before continuing to on to the next lesson. I try to focus in on integrating technology when it fits the best, such as teaching students how to use the library database and how to access it at home for their own use. I've included many websites for them to use for their research projects on the library home page, which I've introduced to them via the computer and projector during library lesson time. They then have the opportunity to use the websites in their own research projects at home and at school. I've taught students how to create citations and hear feedback from the teachers that the students are using the forms I've given them as well as the web sites to create their own sources cited. As I continue learning more about seemlessly integrating technology into the curriculum, I'm going to keep the LoTI levels sheet handy! I do think it's necessary to try to engage the students in their own learning because it's a lifelong skill. I believe students need to think of the computer as a tool to help them in their learning, not as a subject to master. I also believe they need to be excited about what they're learning. The GDI index comes into play here. When students are engaged in their own learning, they have ownership of their learning. The more they're interested, the more they're willing to reach out and learn. I love to see the light bulb go off when they reach the "aha" moment! It's worth the effort and why we try to overcome the hurdles.