Final Reflections

Final Reflections for Digital Technology for the School Librarian

Overall, I found this course from SHSU to be interesting and exciting. I loved learning about new sites and apps to use along with new ways to engage students utilizing technology. I know that the next step in my journey will need to be exploring the many apps available in my district which will help me when encouraging teachers to use the technology offered.

Most Exciting

I truly enjoyed learning how to make QR codes. I am so excited to find out how easy this is. There are limitless options on how to make this an effective learning tool for students. It is a great way to create shortcuts for young students, create interactive bulletin boards and give individualized group instructions. I am also excited to follow librarians on Twitter, Facebook and blogs. It is a wonderful way to explore new ideas and communicate with librarians around the United States.

Most Difficult

I found creating Infographics to be the most challenging assignment for me. I am not very creative and felt some of the programs more difficult to use than others. I would become frustrated when I could visualize what I wanted to create, but wasn't able to design it in the program. I also found it a little challenging to discover that some of the wonderful programs I have learned about in class aren’t accessible in my district or not approved for the elementary level. I will have to explore the options available to ensure my students have the ability to create movies, podcasts and small infographics.

Most Beneficial

For students, I feel the most beneficial application would be the app Tellagami. I think they would be able to utilize this as way to give book reviews, story summaries and reports. Students could use it with minimum assistance and with great results. I also loved Screencast-O-matic. This is a wonderful way to save a computer “how to” lessons for students who may have been absent or need to access the information at home. I could also store simple screencasts for teachers to use as needed to demonstrate how to access online resources, create QR codes and create their own screencasts.

Important to remember

It will always be important for me to remember to check the rules and guidelines of my district before planning lessons around a new program or a new application. For the elementary level, permission may be needed to obtain the app in the LISD app store. If a new app is needed to be utilized for a lesson and is available, it is also important to have it downloaded by students prior to the lesson, due to the limited capabilities at some schools. I feel confident that I could assist teachers and students in creating lessons that use technology and help those teachers that may be hesitant to try something new!