STAGES

Technology and me.  Where am I?  I consider myself to be between stage 2 (adoption) and stage 3 (adaptation) both personally and professionally.  I am a person who would be reluctant to let students use computers since I may not be able to help them troubleshoot problems.  Being a person who comes from Corporate America, I hear the grunts of the IT department when people who are not tech savvy call them for technical support, especially when they consider the problem to be simple.  This has contributed to my desire to stay in my comfort zone of technology versus exploring the many technology tools out there. 

However, because I am very comfortable with the word processing element of technology, I would have no problem with letting my students use this element of technology.  I am hoping this class helps me become more with the World Wide Web element of technology for my benefit and the benefit of my future students.
 

RESEARCH

Reflecting on some of the research that was presented in class I was very surprised by Project Tomorrow’s Speak Up research on school age children personal access to mobile devices.  Particularly I was surprised to see how many children in grades K-2 have technology devices, especially laptops and cell/smart phones.  Additionally, I was surprised by the fact that when it comes to tablets more 6-8 grade students have them than students in 9-12 grade.  In regards to their research on the use social media, I am once again surprised, I expected for the percentage of high school students using social media to be higher. 

I think this research is very helpful, especially for a person like me who is not in the classroom and is not necessarily technology savvy.  This research helps me understand how the role of educator has changed over the years.  It also helps me realize that technology can be a great tool for teaching students across the whole spectrum of educational levels. 

I do not think the research portrayed the students negatively or positively.  I think it is a true reflection of where our technology future is headed and how we as educators need to catch up with changing time.

INTRODUCTION

My name is Unoma T. Gartley.  For many years I have wanted to become a teacher, however fear of failure has prolonged my dream come true.  

I grew up on the Westside of  Chicago, in a low income community known as the Austin neighborhood.  Surrounded by gangs and drugs, I grew up knowing I had to go to school, however the importance of higher education was not instilled in me. 

Looking back over my educational journey and as the mother of a thirteen year old daughter, I feel it is my responsibility to make sure she knows the importance of an education and higher learning .   Additionally, as a Christian and concerned  member of society, I feel it is my responsibility to help and nurture future generations.  I believe the best way to  help children realize their full potential and believe in their ability to attain their dream is to provide them with a holistic education which  nurtures their mind, body and spirit. 

How did I get here?  After many years of bumpy roads and disappointments, I realize I must face my fear in order to 'LIVE' my life's purpose and the dream within me.  So here I am, on my 'VICTORY' journey, trusting and believing in God to go before me and make successful my path.