Over the first 7 weeks of my Instructional Technology course I have learned so many things about using technology both in and out of the classroom. I learned how to create interactive powerpoint for my students to use so they can work at their own pace rather than having to all move at the same pace. This will be so useful given the variety of levels and types of learning that students bring to the classroom. I also learned how to evaluate software to be used in my classroom. This will be useful when I look to order software for use in the class room. I also created a Delicious account which allows me quick and easy access to various educational sites across the internet. This will be incredible useful when I need to find out the latest theories, methods, standards and practices in education. It will also be a useful tool that I can teach my students to use for the projects they must complete. A major part of the semester so far focused on Robyn Williams' four main criteria for effective design. It can be summed up in the acronym CARP, not the fish rather Contrast, Alignment, Repetition and Proximity. I demonstrated this in my brochure I made about the campus radio station WRST. I also continue to learn many things outside of classroom. I've learned several effective ways to use spreadsheets as well as about a new Database system in Microsoft. I hope that the second half of the semester goes as well as the first.
For now,
Tyler Thrune
