1. Reflection of 21st
Century Technology Theater
Describe:
In 2010, I took a graduate course in Educational hardware systems and
collaborated with two classmates, Veronica Corbin and Lili Pineros, to plan a 21st
Century Technology Theater. The idea originated from Dr. Milman, who
assigned us the task of designing a computer lab, That idea was taken to another
level after some brainstorming, eventually leading to the design of a functional
high-tech lab equipped with a theater space suitable for computer presentations
to performances with wireless microphones. After endless Skype conversations,
Google documents and, emails, our efforts combined to form a professional plan
that assisted our understanding of how networks and hardware function and the
evaluation of more complex systems. The sample plan offers an engaging
atmosphere for students to study and learn about any subject. It would operate
as a guide for schools in search of ideas for building an innovative lab.
Analyze & Appraise:
The website demonstrates my ability to collaborate, communicate and complete
professionally demanding projects with teammates from different time zones.
Similar to the Strategic Management Plan, research, interviewing and
observation were key procedures that led to the product development.
It highlights my beliefs in:
-actively working and sharing with others
-engaging, exciting and motivational spaces for children to learn
Transformation:
Working on this assignment was especially meaningful because implementation
o the plan is something I foresee actualizing in real life. Truthfully, it was an
exhilarating experience to be out “in the field,” or outside of the classroom realm,
and interacting with our technology staff about the hardware and networking in
the school. Interacting with people and seeing the actual space, accessing the
dimensions of the rooms, increasing my understanding of wiring in a school
helped elevate my appreciation for education hardware systems much more than
a book ever could. If I recall, one of the lessons learned for the future was the
2. need to collaboratively establish and agree on a systematic and consistent form
of communication everyone is comfortable with, whether it be a posting on
Blackboard, email, or Google Documents. Having our notes in one place helps
eliminates repetitive communication and Realistically, conferencing with
everyone simultaneously at a 12-13 hour difference did not always work in our
favor nor were we free from technical Google Documents and Skype difficulties.
Yet hard work, a clear agenda, and a strong support network helped us create an
innovative lab that continues to lend to a sense of pride. To me it felt like a very
successful graduate projects where each of us played a role in carrying each
other. Effective project-based and collaborative learning inspires my enthusiasm
for the integration of technology in my personal teaching and future projects.