I am always asked the same question over and over again when I have conversations with people that I’m about to graduate from Michigan State with my Masters Degree. My answer is never an easy one or on some days is the same. I have spent roughly two and a half years giving my all during my time with the MAET program. Serving as the student representative for the 2021-2022 school year, teaching through a pandemic and now entering my 10th year as a teacher I still hope to this day that growth of a country begins with the growth of the children/students. However, to be able to accomplish that goal we need the right people leading the charge and that is one of the reasons why I apply to the MAET program back in 2020. My classes in the program taught me so much and developed me into a better educator. Learning about TPACK, leadership, the important of effective teacher professional development and even digital citizenship, these concepts lead me to develop my three main post-master’s degree goals:
Develop and execute lesson plans based on the sole purpose of providing educational support using technology to all of my students in Social Studies and Math classes
Develop and showcase my understanding of educational technology, and working with other teachers in need
Currently to develop my leadership skills and roles in my school
Goal 1: Develop and execute lesson plans based on the sole purpose of providing educational support using technology to all of my students in Social Studies and Math classes
After a year in which the pandemic forced us quickly to learn the ways of technology I want to continue to incorporate technology into my social studies and math classes every and every day. I want my students to be able to access the necessary resources and information they need to be successful in all aspects of their learning. To be able to do everything effectively I’m going to research more sources and continue to attend professional developments that focus on the goal of using technology in the classroom.
What is needed for the goal:
Incorporate TPACK framework into my daily lessons; demonstrating the content and pedagogy which will build and academic success to my students
Using my county curriculum and crossing that with the ISTE standards to establish the classroom that is center around my students in all my social studies and math classes
With the grow of ESOL and switching to teaching special education this year using the Universal Design for students (UDL) to showcase achievement is the key in pushing the learning process
Goal #2: Develop and showcase my understanding of educational technology, and working with other teachers in need After spending 8 years as a follower in the education system and listening to others, I decided that I want to create my own path in the education world. I entered my MAET program with the goal of learning more about technology and then being able to deliver professional developments to my staff. To be able to accomplish this I’m going to start using and reference the following websites and articles:
While I am still new to technology in the education field and scared when I have to present in front of a team of teachers, I plan on sharing all of my ideas and learning experiences with everyone. Other Maryland teachers, The DC Spartans, friends and families. Anyone that can benefit from information.
Goal #3: Currently to develop my leadership skills and roles in my school
Last year I took on the role of Interdisciplinary Team Leader for the 7th grade. While my 1st year has been a very rough year it has been a very rewarding experience and something that I’m looking forward to doing again this year. My goal is to become a technology coach within the school and go around to different new teachers and those who need the help developing technological lessons within the classroom.
What is needed for this goal:
Have daily conversations with colleagues and discuss their current technological ability in the classroom
Continue to develop an understanding of the ISTE standards for leaders as well as the AACPS Social Studies curriculum.
Continue to attend county wide professional developments and taking classes that enhance my ability to extend the technology learning
My time in the MAET program has been a very rewarding experience. I have met some many interesting people who can help me along the way and who have been able to push me to become a better educator in this world. As I continue to develop in my role, I hope that I am able to provide meaningful support and guidance as the new wave of teachers begins to hit the classrooms.