Final Thoughts

What is technological literacy and why is it important?

Technological literacy is the ability to safely and effectively use technology to achieve a variety of goals, in order to both communicate and engage with resources from around the world. Technologically literate people will be able to engage with technological tools both for personal, school and work-related uses as they apply to their own needs. It is important in ensuring that individuals are engaged consumers of the information that is provided through the various forms of technology, to ensure they can engage in an increasingly digital environment. Developing technological literacy in young learners ensures that they can safely and effectively navigate a digital world.

After this course ends, how can you continue to build and refine your own technological literacy?

Through my experiences engaging with a variety of technology tools and resources, I realize that I can refine my own technological literacy by continuing to engage with the newest technology tools and becoming more experienced with various technological practices. I am interested in learning more about coding so that I can understand how the various technological platforms function, including becoming more self-sufficient with creating my own content. I also am interested in continuing to develop my e-portfolio so I can use it to further both my educational and professional career.

Overall, what has struck you most in this class this semester?

This semester, I begun to realize how various technology tools can enhance the material that I am providing to my students. By taking the time to explore new platforms, I can ensure that I am keeping up to date with best technological practices and creating effective learning experiences for my students. As I am beginning to become for comfortable with different types of technology, I am feeling more confident that I can diversify the learning experiences I share with my students, such as incorporating VR/AR experiences into the classroom. By continuing to research different forms of technology and how they can be integrated into my classroom, I can ensure that my students are engaged and become accountable for their own learning.

Will what you have learned or experienced influence you in any way going forward?

Taking this course, amongst other courses I have taken this semester, has encouraged me to transfer from the Literacy Education program to the Learning Technologies program. I am interested in pursuing technology both regards to the educational field, and am even considering pursuing other areas of technology such as instructional design or graphic design. Next semester, I will be taking a course in instructional design, as well as establishing an online learning community.

You created two huge pieces of work this semester: your blog and your website/ePortfolio project. What might you do with them after the semester is over?

I am planning on continuing this blog, as well as revisiting some of my previous posts to determine if they can be modified to function as an aspect of my e-portfolio. I designed my website to be an e-portfolio, and included aspects such as my resume that I believe will be helpful as I apply to jobs in the future. I am also planning, at some point, to transition my website to a more professional domain that I can keep in use throughout my career.