Module+1

=Standards and Technology=

Through the face-to-face class, assigned readings, and online discussions, I have come to know and understand a small portion of ISTE's standards for students, teachers, facilitators, and leaders. Prior to this program, I was completely unaware of their existence. As I read the standards for teachers, I thought of not only my own use of technology in the classroom, but also that of my colleagues in my building. Many are beginning to embrace technology as a means to be more productive, efficient, organized, and so on. This can be attributed to the enthusiasm and competency of some newer members as well as an increase in access to technology. I have always thought very highly of the people with whom I have come into contact with in k12 education.
 * Description:**

Each time I learn more about theory and standards, I am able to affirm what fine professionals our schools have because I see many of the theories unfolding and standards being striven for. This is often happening without knowledge of standards, which makes it all that much more inspiring. I now feel as though I have a more clear picture of what the purpose of this program is.
 * Impact:**

I hope to use the standards I have learned about as a guide through the program, in my classroom, and throughout my building. Many people struggle with basic concepts that I tend to take for granted. I think that the facilitator standards mentioned in chapter 1 of the book will serve as a good list of things to share with tech-challenged colleagues who wish to join the technical and information revolution as participants.
 * Intent:**

I would consider myself to be currently most capable in the areas of facilitating and inspiring student learning and creativity and serving as a model of digital age work and learning. I am excited about the speed and ease that, through the use of technology, one has access to "surface knowledge". My excitement tends to spread throughout the classroom as I often have students wishing to look up facts other information. This gives rise to discussions of reliability of sources and the purpose of schooling. This all underscores the need to teach process, not necessarily content. This, unfortunately, is the area that I am most needing to improve. I feel that I am most lacking in the ability to sequence and build authentic problem situations that drive instruction. In this program, I am hoping to go through this type of process myself as a vehicle to learn to better scaffold such learning experiences for my students. I also would like to know more about digital responsibility such as citing sources of digital content like photos, music, and video so that I can act as a more proficient model for my students and fellow staff members.
 * Statement of Strengths and Weaknesses:**