Blog Post #1

My objectives in this class include first learning about the practical application of educational technologies to instruction and instructional design so that learning can be more engaging and accessible. I want to acquire skills that allow me to choose the right tools, design worthwhile activities, and use technology to develop a deeper understanding opposed to shallow engagement. I want to put these skills to use for planning lessons, assessments, and classroom interactions, all of which are oriented to becoming more exciting and student-centered. My experience with technology in education includes, among others, the use of Canvas and Google Classroom for submitting assignments and getting resources and for interacting with fellow students. I am also competent in presentation software like PowerPoint and Canva and have more recently been using Zoom for remote instruction and group work. While these experiences have taught me that technology can improve communication and organization, I have also learned that if one does not know how to really harness these tools, their implementation may actually undermine rather than aid the learning process. My existing personal learning network is a very hybrid one that combines both online and offline resources I choose to employ for my academic and personal progress. Since I have an interest in history and urban development, I often look for relevant sources online through academic databases, YouTube lectures, and digital archives, whereas offline resources may involve the local library or class discussions. Sometimes I also go to social media forums such as Reddit and LinkedIn for networking with people who share an interest in my own topics and provide different point of views. These are the networks through which I acquire newer skill sets, investigate issues of my own accord, and use this knowledge both academically and personally.