ISTE Standards Reflection

As the world becomes more technologically advanced, it is important for teachers to understand and recognize the importance for using technology in the classroom and the ISTE standards is an important tool to make sure it is done correctly. These standards highlight the goals we have for our students and their use of technology. These standards also helped to remind me that it’s not just content standards that need to be addressed while teaching. In my opinion, these standards focus on good teaching and learning – not simply on technology use. On the other hand while reviewing these standards I found myself having a similar reaction to when I read the essential conditions; which is a feeling of doubt that these standard can really be met in most schools which often not only lack the resources to do so but also may not have an immediate desire to do so either. I also feel these standards are a bit of a laundry list for teachers and students that are quite nonspecific in nature. Despite the standards idealism and impreciseness they can provide a very basic structure for a teacher when creating a curriculum which attempts to incorporates technology in a meaningful and successful way

Standard 1 is one of the most important of the 5 in my opinion. It promotes that integrating technology is important in every classroom and what better way to nurture student use of technology than to model it ourselves. It also strongly encourages the need for collaboration, creativity and innovation in the classroom in relationship to technology.

Standard 2, which I found most interesting, refers to planning and designing learning environments and experiences. The standard addresses the need for teachers to be able to incorporate tools and resources that will maximize content learning for students. I believe that technology offers so many venues in which teachers can explore valuable resources. Educators today must teach to so many different learners and learning styles that it is important to be able to tap into technology in order to present information in a variety of ways that will make learning relevant and meaningful. With the ideals of this standard a goal that I would like to have for myself as a future teacher is to individualize student learning through the power of technology as much as possible. My hope is my students will take more initiative in succeeding in these goals if they've been an active participant in creating them.

According to Standard 3, teachers are to “demonstrate fluency in technology systems and the transfer of current knowledge to new technologies and situations.” Thankfully, with the variety modern technology, teachers can find tools they feel comfortable using in their own classrooms. As a future teacher, I would love to have a Smart Board or other new technologies in my classroom. I feel very passionate about getting students involved and feeling like they are a part of something. With a Smart Board, students can participate in nontraditional ways and hopefully feel more motivated to engage in class. I feel that with all the new technologies arising, teachers are bound to find something that will enhance their classrooms.

Standard 4 addresses the issue of digital citizenship and responsibility. I do strongly feel teachers have a duty to model digital etiquette and responsible social interactions related to the use of technology and information. While the internet is an excellent tool for learning when used correctly, it can also be very destructive if safety, legal, and ethical use is not taught and enforced. Teachers have a responsibility to teach students awareness of copyright regulations and the correct way to document sources in order to avoid plagiarism.

Standard 5 states that teachers must engage in professional growth and leadership as well as “participate in local and global learning communities to explore creative applications of technology to improve student learning.” I believe this last statement is the most important within Standard 5. Teachers should always be collaborating with other teachers and professionals to ensure the best education for their students. I hope to take full advantage of the online learning communities available when i become a teacher- they can provide inventive ideas and tips to increase my effectiveness in the classroom.