From+the+Heart

From the Heart

 Throughout my experiences creating this wiki I have learned a lot about myself as an individual as well as my future as an educator. I've definitely realized how little I know about the technology available today, especially the free technology available for download and use online. It is truly amazing how limitless the possibilities are as long as you know how to utilize the proper tools. Although I was familiar with blogs and sites such as YouTube, I never really understood how these sites could benefit me and my future students beyond entertainment! Furthermore, the creation of this wiki opened me up to a lot, and I mean a lot, of websites I never even knew existed! There are so many different websites available that are actually tailored for use in the classroom and even more that can be manipulated for effective educational uses. Until this point, I've thought that most of the teaching I will do will be strictly from text books and a pre-constructed curriculum designated by whatever school district I work for. Now, I realize that while this may be the case, there is definitely room for expansion on ANY assignment. This prospect is very, very exciting! I enjoy being a creative individual and having the freedom to use this creativity as often as possible, I have always thought this was important assett for a teacher. However, I wasn't always sure how to utilize my creativity in a classroom setting beyond such things as art projects. Now, I know that the many forms of technology I am now familiar with will be just one way I can create fun and engaging units for my students. I now have a very valuable tool in my toolbox!