Integrating Google Classroom to Academic Planning Assignment

Reflection on Integration of Google Classroom Technology

There was an easy choice selecting Google Classroom for this lesson because of its user-friendly interface and robust collaboration features. Google Classroom allows students to access assignments, share resources, and engage in discussions seamlessly, making it an ideal platform for academic planning tasks. The technology’s contribution to the lesson is significant as it streamlines the planning process, enhances collaboration among students, and provides a centralized organizational platform. It can be argued that Google Classroom is beneficial for student learning as it promotes active participation, fosters communication and collaboration, and empowers students to take ownership of their educational journey.

One way to differentiate the lesson plan using technology is by incorporating assistive technologies for students with diverse learning needs. For example, students with visual impairments could benefit from screen reader software that reads aloud the content displayed on Google Classroom. Additionally, providing alternative technology tools or programs, such as Microsoft OneNote or Trello, could accommodate students who prefer different organization and collaboration platforms geared toward project management. By offering multiple options for accessing and interacting with the lesson content, technology can support diverse learning styles and ensure that each student has equitable opportunities for success.

Academic Planning Worksheet

The Academic Planning Worksheet can be differentiated by providing varying levels of scaffolding and support based on each student’s individual needs. For students who require additional assistance, simplified language and visual cues can be incorporated to enhance comprehension. Furthermore, providing options for flexible goal-setting formats, such as graphic organizers or templates, accommodates diverse learning styles. Additionally, offering extended time or one-on-one guidance allows students with special needs to engage with the material thoroughly. By tailoring the worksheet to accommodate different learning abilities, all students can effectively participate in the academic planning process and achieve their goals.

The integration of assistive technologies in classrooms continues to expand, offering diverse solutions to enhance accessibility and learning experiences for all students. While these technologies present numerous benefits, including improved engagement and inclusivity, challenges such as cost and implementation barriers must be addressed to ensure equitable access for all learners.

(TRANSCRIPT) Discussion Board Post: Reflection

Two lessons that I have learned during the weeks of Dr. Bowe’s course are:

1. Creating curriculum & coursework for any grade level is hard work and should NOT be underestimated! I have an even fonder respect and empathy toward educators as they face the political red tape in education ON TOP OF having to maintain the mental health of themselves in a capacity to do this work.
2. Professional organizations ARE important! They give you exposure, continuing education opportunities, and they’re a networking goldmine! As we were covering this portion of the work, I was away at my 2nd conference, but first one as a member of SACRAO whose acronym stands for the Southern Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officials in Lexington, KY.  It was amazing and I am so happy that I took that leap because I originally declined until a later date.

How were you challenged?

1. I was challenged in a way like no other because I have not had prior experience or instruction to be a teacher, therefore I’ve never used many of the programs/technology that we encountered. My program will not lead to licensure. This was no easy task! However, I know that if I want to be an advisor and possibly teach an undergrad orientation course it will take a lot of planning. I also wouldn’t be angry if the curriculum were pre-made.

In what way have you been changed?

1. In my personal life and in the last semester of my program I have experienced doubt, frustration, feelings of defeat, and uncertainty. However, in speaking with Dr. Bowe, her prayers, my own prayers, and letting God take the wheel: I see that I have made it to the light at the end of the tunnel.

What would I like to take with Me?

1. I would like to take the hard work and learning that goes into being able to teach. May I always have an affinity for education because it is like a glacier: there is SO MUCH that goes on behind the scenes/beneath the surface that you may never see.

Transcript:

Roblyer & Hughes (2023) discuss gaming In the classroom. One benefit from gaming would be active gaming where PE instructors could use gaming to help get students active and moving in class. One challenge associated with gaming in the classroom is that it could become a potential distraction if it’s used for purposes other than the learning instruction that the teacher provides. A suggestion that I would use follows along the lines of J. Fingal (2019) and the ISTE blog where he used augmented reality, or virtual reality, to help students who are autistic develop their social-emotional learning. I feel that gaming is inappropriate in the instructional setting if it does not contribute to students learning; if they are partaking in activities that they can do outside of class time.  Thank you.

References

Fingal, J. (2019). Augmented reality can help autistic students with social-emotional learning. ITSE. https://iste.org/blog/augmented-reality-can-help-autistic-students-with-social-emotional-learning

Hughes, J. & Roblyer, M. (2023). Integrating educational technology into teaching (9th ed.). Pearson Education.

(Transcript) Video Discussion Thread: Differentiation through Technology

On the landscape of higher education, curriculum standards play a very significant role in forming educational practices while governing students and instructors. According to Hughes & Roblyer (2023) holding fast to those standards can have a large impact on the education and experience essentially creating hurdles and opportunities for instructors and students.

How does the effective teacher balance the demand of a standards-based curriculum catered to the individual needs of each student? Teachers can balance those demands by using differentiation as a strategy; tailoring their methods of instruction to best suit each student and their learning styles or abilities (Hughes & Roblyer, 2023). Teachers can offer their own tools as metrics to assess strengths and areas for improvement in students.

What tools do we have at our disposal to help us comply with both demands?

One major tool at our disposal is opportunity for professional development. By joining associations and professional networks, continuing education, and attending conferences we learn from other instructors, we may find invaluable tools or methods we never thought of, which could make all the difference to a student they may help.

What best practices regarding technology in your instruction do you incorporate into your lessons? Eiland & Todd (2019) stated that technology should have a purpose, there should be a determination of how it will be used, and the use of technology should be fun. I would incorporate a technology that students could use in their professional and personal lives long after they’ve completed their education.

References

Eiland, L. & Todd, T. (2019). Considerations when incorporating technology into classroom and experiential teaching. The Journal of Pediatric Pharmacology and Therapeutics, 24(4), 270–275. https://doi.org/10.5863/1551-6776-24.4.270

Hughes, J. & Roblyer, M. (2023). Integrating educational technology into teaching, (9th ed.) New York, NY: Pearson.

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