Week 7

We are almost done with our project!!! It's been a tough experience, but I've definitely learned a lot. Our group has worked together very well. I think one reason we worked so well together is because we have known each other for almost a year now and done several projects in other courses. If we didn't have that previous experience with each other this project would have been so much more difficult because we would have been trying to figure out how to work with each other, learn the new technology, and complete the project. So, what have I learned from this project?

1. I was in charge of the web quest assignment and pretty much did that on my own, after a lengthy discussion with the group about the purpose and scope of the assignment. Once we were all in agreement about the project it went very smoothly. This experience made me realize how important it is to plan before executing. It also reiterated the point that goals and objectives are a must. If I would have just started on the web quest without the group discussion and without objectives... it would have been a mess. However, our discussion really helped clarify things for everyone and I was able to complete the assignment fairly quickly as a result. Also, I had my sister complete the web quest and give us feedback so we could improve it. The feedback she gave us was really helpful and I feel like the web quest works better because of it. This reminded me that I need to ask my students for feedback so I constantly improve assignments and assessments.
2. I have learned a lot of new technology tools that I am excited to use in my classroom.
3. I have learned a lot about communicating with team members. Sometimes there are misunderstandings or differing viewpoints. I learned how to better discuss and approach issues. I can use these skills in the classroom with my students as I teach and as they are doing group assignments.
4. I have learned a lot about problem solving and group dynamics. I already have some activities planned for the student government retreat where I will put these to use. I will be teaching a lesson about group dynamics and then we will engage in some role-playing about conflict resolution and problem solving.
5. I have learned a lot about planning a successful project. This will help me in my teaching, particularly with student government. We have to plan all the assemblies, dances, and other activities. I will use the ADDIE principles with my students as we plan these activities. I will also be able to use these skills as I plan and implement my master's project.