Diversity
Diversity Statement
Since beginning the Instructional Technology Specialist program at Kennesaw State University, I have grown so much when it relates to technology and student learning. I have gained a more in-depth understanding during this class of the importance of using digital tools and resources to enhance student learning. Before becoming a teacher, I often thought of the differentiation of modifying students' work. It was not until I became a teacher that I truly learned the meaning of differentiation and that it comes in many forms. Since I began this class, I have gained a deeper understanding of differentiation and how to use technology to differentiate instruction. I learned many types of add-ins and extensions to use on the computer to meet student's diverse needs.
After learning about the digital divide and digital equity I understand the importance of advocating for students to receive digital equity no matter what their backgrounds are, their family incomes are, and it does not matter their gender. All students should be awarded an equal opportunity to learn. The divide with digital equity is detrimental to students learning. This class has helped me to reflect on the technology available to my students. I have learned how to plan, develop, create, and implement technology-enhanced lessons that students can complete within adequate timing within the classroom, to diminish the anxiety and stress of not completing assignments promptly due to no internet access and no technology devices at home.
During the duration of the Instructional Technology Specialist program at Kennesaw State University, I have completed various field experiences that have provided me the opportunity to effectively and successfully meet the needs of diverse learners. Some of those field experiences are:
Since beginning the Instructional Technology Specialist program at Kennesaw State University, I have grown so much when it relates to technology and student learning. I have gained a more in-depth understanding during this class of the importance of using digital tools and resources to enhance student learning. Before becoming a teacher, I often thought of the differentiation of modifying students' work. It was not until I became a teacher that I truly learned the meaning of differentiation and that it comes in many forms. Since I began this class, I have gained a deeper understanding of differentiation and how to use technology to differentiate instruction. I learned many types of add-ins and extensions to use on the computer to meet student's diverse needs.
After learning about the digital divide and digital equity I understand the importance of advocating for students to receive digital equity no matter what their backgrounds are, their family incomes are, and it does not matter their gender. All students should be awarded an equal opportunity to learn. The divide with digital equity is detrimental to students learning. This class has helped me to reflect on the technology available to my students. I have learned how to plan, develop, create, and implement technology-enhanced lessons that students can complete within adequate timing within the classroom, to diminish the anxiety and stress of not completing assignments promptly due to no internet access and no technology devices at home.
During the duration of the Instructional Technology Specialist program at Kennesaw State University, I have completed various field experiences that have provided me the opportunity to effectively and successfully meet the needs of diverse learners. Some of those field experiences are:
- I worked with English Language Learners by using technology to help them achieve the learning objectives with Algebra 2 students.
- I completed an Assistive Technology field experience by working with a student that has a hearing deficit. While working with the student, I learned how to operate the hearing assistive devices needed by the teacher and student, for the student to hear and learn.
- I created an internet lesson that included differentiation instruction to meet the diverse needs of all students in the class. I included interventions, remediation, and also enrichments.
- I completed experiences over digital equity and the importance of closing the digital divide among schools.
- I created a WebQuest over Integers that included various learning styles.