I have expanded my knowledge and understanding greatly through this MET program. For example, I had thought of ISTE standards as fluff and education speak prior to my coursework. I had several different assignments looking at the standards for students, educators, education leaders and coaches. I created an infographic in one of my early classes to break down 1.3.b Evaluate Information, to show teachers how they can apply this standard in their classroom with easy-to-understand action items. I made a short video explaining copyright fair use in education, and in doing so actively using ISTE standards 3.2 Visionary Planner and 3.3 Empowering Leader.
I now have a better understanding of the SAMR Model for technology integration and growth from "Substitution/Augmentation" (Enhancement) to "Modification/Redefinition" (Transformation). The best example of this is through my “You should probably change your password” Figjam board created for EDU 927 Multimedia Classrooms. I’ve had extensive practice with simply substituting technology in education, like setting up a Google Forms assignment to act as a quiz or check for knowledge. This assignment built on my research in passwords alongside different learning styles - a graphic view between components for visual learners and different interactions (personal, pairs and groups) for kinesthetic learners. The Figjam board allows for Modification by enabling task redesign - students collaborating in real-time to build a guide on password creation. This lesson moves demonstrating mastery from a simple quiz to creating a personal guide on how to decide if a password is weak or strong.
The lessons I have learned in the MET program have pushed me to be both a better leader and a better educator. Just prior to beginning this program, I presented at PETE&C, the Pennsylvania ed tech conference, in the winter of 2024. These presentations were focused on the technical aspects of education technology - a/v production and digital signage. I was able to take the things I learned in this program and adjust future presentations to be more inclusive of educators and teachers. I have since presented at an additional conference and on topics from AI policy, password hygiene, and event management for educators. I also created two new professional development sessions at my local school district - one for teachers and one for our paraprofessionals.
Overall, the biggest thing the MET program has taught me is that I am ready to lead education technology. I entered this program through an untraditional path - I am an educator, but not a classroom teacher. My experiences are shaped by the students and staff I have worked with and alongside since 2009. I am in the Millennial generation - I remember programs on 5.5” floppy disks and dial-up internet. I remember the wonder of having access to an Apple IIe computer for typing in elementary school. Dr. (then-Mrs.) Joyce Valenza taught my high school class about this new search engine called Google in 1999. I purchased my first laptop for undergraduate college. I am passionate about technology because I have grown alongside its evolution and growth. I am more confident in my growth in standards (ISTE), models (SAMR), and research (Digital Citizenship). I am energized knowing the difference effective tech can have on the student experience and their ability to excel. Through this Masters program, I feel prepared for the next stage of your career in educational technology.