The other day I was having a conversation with my principal about the “what ifs” of having all these technological tools at the helm when going to school in the earlier days. Would I have made smarter choices and applied myself to the potential that my parents desired so much? Would that Grade 7 Computer Science class that I failed to take turn turn around and make me a technology mogul? Mattel has claimed the Hover Board to be an upcoming 2012 holiday success, but the DeLorean Time Machine has yet to make its debut appearance. So, those answers will remain unknown until the end of time.
What I can say though, is how much I enjoy using computers, digital assistive technologies, and web 2.0 tools. I can’t say that I am fluent in everything about what technology offers, but I am willing to take risks and try them out. Not just for me personally, but for my students that I work with each day. My passion for technology and its offerings have now turned into a mission of how these tools and technologies can create a purposeful and meaningful learning experience for the students I encounter with each day.
I am passionate about school technology and have been an early adopter of using computers and technology in my classroom; from projectors to Smart Boards, digital cameras to Flip cameras, desktops to laptops to iPads. And now, trying new Web 2.0 tools with my students. My principal has provided me the opportunity and support during the past few school years to be a learning leader in the school community. This opportunity has allowed for me to advocate for the potential that these technologies can do to support students and teachers in their learning and practice. My passion for technology isn’t shared by all as change is daunting, but many are willing participants.
Technology and its offerings are continually evolving, and as a life-long learner its important to be open-minded about change. With an open mind it’s much easier to see how change has the potential to be positive.