Reflection: Final Blog Post

• ·      After following my GAME plan, I discovered information that will have an impact on the instructional practice used for my students. During week four, I learned more than one type of assessment can determine student comprehension. Today’s academic world seems to be centered on test scores and whether or not teachers, students, and schools can meet certain testing criteria. Of the types of assessments learned, the forced-option format seems to be the main focus. However, assessment formats such as open-ended response, performance-based, and project-based, I’ve learned, can be focal points for measuring student comprehension. Open-ended response format can come in the form of an essential question used to introduce a new unit, and the question can be answered throughout the duration of the unit. Project-based and performance-based assessments open up many opportunities for students and teachers to become creative, especially when technology is implemented. With the use of technology, the assessments allow teachers to give students the opportunity to convey information learned and present it in an innovative way. Therefore, any modifications and revisions made will be to have a variety of assessments for students. The pencil-paper, multiple choice assessment style can become monotonous, so keeping the choices fresh will lead towards sustainable engagement for students and teachers. 

• ·      I am fortunate to teach at a school where technology integration for Science content is doable. Our school has equipped each classroom with an interactive white board (SMART® Board) which teachers use on a daily basis. Other available technological tools our school provides include, the iTouch, the Kindle®, laptop computers, and school-wide wireless Internet. However, the school seems to still be in the beginning stages of using the innovative tools because I do not believe they are used to their full potential. In other words, the only activity widely used involving the SMART® Board is the problem-based learning activity, despite us having the equipment to conduct networking/online collaboration and/or digital storytelling into our instruction. So, I plan to take the necessary steps to make sure I am comfortable with implementing an online collaboration and digital storytelling activity with my students. Afterwards, I will be willing to assist my colleagues in implementing the same activities in their classroom.