Individual Technology Assessment

Approaching the end of my third year as a teacher at an elementary school, I have always considered myself to be someone who is knowledgeable when it comes to computer technology.  I am comfortable using a PC.  I haven’t had much experience with a Macintosh machine beyond learning the basics of Adobe Photoshop Suites.  I am familiar with Internet Explorer, search engines, video streaming, educational software, Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, and Excel), digital/video cameras, data projectors, scanners, iPod’s, TV’s, VCR’s, and DVD players.  I think services, like United Streaming, provide great video streams and assignments that contribute to teaching and reinforcing or supplementing concepts. 

In a fast paced world where technology continues to evolve, I feel like there are areas I do need training. I am not familiar with converting MP3 files to MP4 files or splicing audio tape.  Although I feel well-rounded using the internet, there are many Web 2.0 tools that I have not had first-hand experience using.   For instance, I know what Wiki’s are used for and belong to one, but don’t know where to begin in order to create one.  I haven’t created a website from scratch, but have created one with a provided template. 

I plan to continue to use the knowledge that I have to continue implementing technology in the classroom by giving students opportunities to use technology daily to reinforce material that has been taught.  I would like to create a website that is more inviting to the eye, user friendly for students, and not too busy.  I realize that I need to expand my professional development in technology.  I need to learn how to teach students to research online.  I think it would help me as a professional to attend trainings and then present the information to my colleagues.