Blog Journal #10

On my PLN:

    Throughout this semester, my PLN has evolved: I have discovered different sources of information, learned about new tools for lesson planning and development, and met new online creators on new online spaces that I look up to for advice and knowledge.  What has changed the most is the tools that I access.  After taking this class, many new tools have been made available to me, which is a tremendous advantage, especially as a student.  It is important to make sure one has these tools available early on in order to get ahead before stepping into the classroom, which is one of my main priorities as an aspiring teacher.  On the other hand, the people whom I look up to and reach out for advice has remained the same for the most part, both online and in-person.  Also, the spaces in which I interact with these professionals has not changed much. 

On Data Collection Tools:

    Teachers benefit from data collection tools in different areas of their practice.  By collecting data from students, they receive direct feedback on the students' attitude towards their class, and what they feel they could benefit from.  By collecting data from parents, teachers can learn more information about what academic support students receive at home or to what extent parents are involved.  With all this information at hand, teachers are able to tailor lessons based on students needs, and understand the context in which students are doing their homework, or studying for their tests.  Although this might not be the typical information a teacher collects, it could inform the types of work they assign for home to set up their students for success.  In my case, I plan to teach Middle or High School, where I will be using data collection to better understand what my students are getting out of my class.  When students are given the opportunity to give anonymous feedback, they are usually honest and helpful.  

SMART Goal:

    The SMART goal I am developing in terms of a technology-related skill I would like to learn is how to use Excel.  I have used it before, but never academically, therefore,  I am not familiar with all of its features, and it is a useful tool in the world of education.  For example, all the data collected in my surveys I must organize, and the best way to do it would be in an spreadsheet.  Since this is a SMART goal, it has to be measurable and time-bound, so my plan is to learn how to work Excel by next year.  I will measure whether I have achieved my goal or not by testing myself to remember all of its features.  The most important thing is for me to know how to use it before stepping into the classroom so that it becomes one less thing I have to learn.