Overall+Program+Reflection

Coming into a fledging educational program is a very interesting experience. I think it added some additional challenges for the students and professors alike, as well as providing the students with a unique perspective into the educational process when incorporating technology. I was able to observe first-hand the complications that can arise in an online program, and see the reaction from the student point of view. Observing organizational issues and the refinement of assignments and classes, gave me a chance to realize how I could improve on a similar implementation to reduce teacher and student stress levels.

As the Educational Technology was a fairly new program, some of the classes were borrowed from the masters program for Administrators. The course in Leadership for Accountability and School Law were two such classes. Both of these classes gave me insight into the considerations that administrators must take into account when making decisions. From Leadership for Accountability, I also discovered a new way to analyze student assessment data; that I think allows a much clearer and deeper look at the areas that are working and those that need improvement. School Law contained important information related to student privacy and online safety, and copyright concerns for schools.

The courses established a good foundation in Constructivist Theory and the principles of technology integration. Students were also introduced to the basic design principles such as layout, content, and repetition. Methods for organizing the content and materials for websites and online courses were presented in multiple ways and courses. Important concepts were covered in multiple classes, often in different context which made them more accessible to a wider group of learners. I think one of the most valuable lessons put forth in the courses was that technology should be used with a specific purpose in mind and not just because it’s “high-tech”. I think this is something schools and teachers tend to forget.