Education+Technology+Leadership+Program+Reflection

Submitted by Vicki Lovett, ET8001 Reflection on Educational Technology Leadership Program Lamar University This program has been an exciting and challenging journey. I expected to walk away with knowledge that could be applied to any classroom. I did get that and so much more. I have learned several programs, applications and necessary hardware within the classes through Lamar and outside the classes. That is one area that was surprising to me. I was amazed at the thoughts these classes provoked. After learning about a topic in class it caused me to continue the research further. The Multimedia Video Technology course, EDLD 5363 is a perfect example. The lectures and readings supported the assignment. The assignments were thought provoking and encouraged collaboration. The more collaboration that occurred the more learning occurred. As our group projects progressed the learning intensified. We learned how to initiate our own web conferences. We learned the finer points of Google Documents. Even though we had some personal issues we were all able to incorporate these issues in our project. We all discovered various adaptations to the initial project that we could us in our current classrooms. One of the most valuable benefits from the program is the ability to problem solve. When it comes to technology, it doesn’t always go well the first time. Our professors demonstrated this in web conferences when technical difficulties occur. As a presenter, technical difficulties seem to occur regularly. I have learned various methods to solve these problems and where to look to correct them. I have learned to remain calm and to keep on trying. Endurance is another valuable lesson I’ve learned through the program. There were times that the work load just seemed unbearable. Even when I thought I had no more to give, I just kept going and managed to complete all the classes and assignments on time. It was amazing how much work I could complete after a full day of school, requirements at home and with the family. The Educational Technology Leadership program through Lamar University has been very beneficial. I have learned content that I have put to use already. I have learned life lessons that I have already applied. I have networked with other professionals who are very passionate about what they do. I have had the opportunity to share this information with the professionals on my campus and within my district. I am very glad that I have participated in the program. I’m looking forward to the doctorate program.