Assignment #1:

Explain your Technology Experience-

Most of my technology experience has been self taught through personal exploration. In fact, the last technology course I took was in high school and it basically covered the fundamentals of using a computer. Although I haven't received any other formal instruction on technology, I find myself pretty comfortable using its multiple interfaces. I have a Mac at home and grew up using a PC. Having the knowledge of both systems has really served as a benefit throughout my years in college, and has made me feel comfortable using emerging technology. Regularly I do not experience any sort of anxiety while learning how a new program works on a computer; however, I do tend to get frustrated when I cannot figure out how something works. Overall, I love using technology because I value programs that call for creativity and design.

Explain your Educational Experience-

Throughout my years in undergrad, I had the chance to work with students coming from a variety of different levels and volunteer in a number of classrooms. The last two years at San Diego State, I worked for my psychology professors and tutored his clients' children that came to his private practice. Most of his clients that I tutored were of the middle school age and had some sort of learning disability. After I graduated, I wanted to take some time off from my own schooling and gain some experience in the classroom. Last year, I got hired by Encinitas Unified and spent the year working in a K-6 Special Education classroom. I taught fifth grade Math and fourth grade Language Arts. I also substituted on my days off. Now that I have gained some experience in the school district, I have learned that I enjoy working with upper Elementary students (4-7). I am excited to be starting the teaching credential in August, and I am eagered to learn how to become a more effective teacher.

What you hope to get out of ED422-

I hope to obtain a broader knowledge in technology after taking Ed422. I would like to learn multiple ways a teacher can encompass technology into the classroom. I hope to understand how it improves a student's education and see the benefits towards having technology driven lessons. I also want to learn more about making videos because I know the we will need this knowledge while working on our TPA. Lastly, I am excited to learn how to build websites. I feel that students stay more informed and are more likely to stay on track when they have the ability to "reach the classroom" from their own homes. All of these skills I am ready and excited to learn about.

Going Forward:

The following blogs for this class will relate to the TPA (Teacher Performance Assessment). I decided to do my blog on the TPA because I want to learn more about why the TPA was started. I also hope that this blog turns into a site where students in the program can go to if they have any questions, comments, concerns, or just need to vent about the TPA. My goal is to make the TPA more clear and less stressful!

(Keep connected during the TPA!)