IT Final Project Learning Reflection:

I ended up putting more work into the TEDEd lesson than anything else I have done in this course! I wanted to use a tool I wasn’t familiar with to design a well-researched training that was engaging and entertaining. It took me a couple days of work (about 4 hours both days) to put together the script, and a solid 4 hours to record video and audio and assemble and edit the components. It was a great time, and I think it would be a lot faster now that I’m familiar with the tools, so I will definitely use these tools in the future to design online presentations.

I have learned so much throughout this course! Initially, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I have a background in virtual training and using instructional technology was definitely part of that. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find all of these tools that I didn’t know existed. I also was able to practice so much with these tools as I used them to complete projects for this course. I gained insight into the wealth of instructional technology available online now and the potential they have to make preparing lessons a little easier and delivering them a little more engaging. Throughout, I also learned to be intentional with my use of a tool, thinking of its utility and really getting to know the tool before I try to implement it into a project or classroom. Beyond that, I had a great opportunity to interact with my peers in an environment of learning that was mutually beneficial. It was a pleasure to work alongside so many talented and intelligent people.

I also wanted to say that, over the course of this semester, things have changed a bit in my focus. I was planning on teaching in the 8th grade or secondary range, with a focus on ELA or Social Studies, but now I am thinking more and more that I want to continue to engage with academia on some level. I would love to start teaching in higher education and pursue further education. I mention this only because this course unexpectedly reinforced this idea. Working alongside so many educators and sharing ideas and information as I learn so much across multiple disciplines has been a dream for me. I really enjoyed this class! Thank you for all you did to make it so great.

IT Final Presentation:

TedEd Lesson: