Developing A GAME Plan

Honestly, I am not very familiar with the National Education Standards for Teacher (NETS-T). I only review them, when required by my classes. I get very discouraged when viewing them, because I know that they are not implemented in my classroom or our school. It seems that we are starting to take the steps towards using updated technology, but are still very far behind using; overhead projectors, chalk boards, and dated computers that are often not working.

After viewing the NETS-T, there are two indicators that I would like to share my GAME plan for strengthening:
- Design and Develop Digital-Age Learning Experiences and Assessments
Customize and personalize learning activities to address students’ diverse learning styles, working strategies, and abilities using digital tools and resources

- Engage in Professional Growth and Leadership
Exhibit leadership by demonstrating a vision of technology infusion, participating in shared decision making and community building, and developing the leadership and technology skills of others.

I believe that I began my teaching career able to customize and personalize learning activities using digital tools. However, I fear that I am no longer proficient in this area. Technology and the digital tools used in classrooms have changed significantly. I will have to observe how teachers, at other surrounding schools, use technology in their classrooms to achieve my goal of becoming proficient once more. I also believe that this course and other Walden courses are helping me to learn how to incorporate digital tools. Once technology is finally updated and infused at our school, I can start practicing this indicator and become proficient. Until then, I will continue to learn the new ways to customize and personalize using digital tools!

I can’t begin to explain the “want” that I have for technology at our school. However, I lack leadership, participation and ideas for infusion. I blame it on being a new teacher and just trying to survive my first few years. I, now, understand that if I want change I am going to have to become proficient in this NETS-T indicator. I think that this school year is a great time to start! I will participate in our technology team, share my vision of technology infusion with our administration and help develop technology skills of other teachers. I understand that this won’t immediately change our situation but will hopefully push our school closer to the 21st century.