This course has proven to be quite the experience in the making. Not only did this course require thorough reading of the text, viewing of video lectures and interviews, participation of discussion boards and the ever resourceful blogging procedures, but most importantly, but as a novice research practitioner, it drove me to think in terms of the subject matter which was stressful at times, but once broken down manageable. I've been employed by Pasadena ISD for almost 10 years, and I've only recently found out that our Districts Superintendent Dr. Kirk Lewis who has held that position for the past 5 years is in fact a Lamar University Alumni. I must admit that I was awe-stricken and ecstatic to see that our superintendent achieved his Doctorate in Philosophy online but most importantly through the same program that I am taking part of. If Dr. Lewis could achieve such accolades, well then so could I. Dr. Lewis, best summarized his interview responses as concentrating on what is important and practical to the researcher.. With this in mind, students will be greatly appreciated and value the work and effort that is being put forth. I must be honest in saying that the textbook reading selections at times were pretty dry and hard to digest. So I often found myself having to read the selections repeatedly and out loud to myself. As for the lectures, Dr. Arturburry and Dr. Jenkins did a fine job in presenting the material on a weekly basis. I understand it was no easy feat trying to incorporate administrators views on research to that of Educational Technology. So I am grateful for both the professors and the instructional assistant Creighton Gann with the grading process. As for the assignment and activities, I would like to reflect by saying that the word writing intensive comes to mind. After having taken EDLD 5306 and EDLD-5301, I've come to realize that the program should require the students to take the Analytical section of the GRE rather than the quantitative. Assignments were very clear and forthright as were EDLD- 5306. I must admit that they were similar in nature, therefore, they weren't as difficult to navigate through. It definitely required higher order thinking skills and clear and articulate writing of thoughts and ideas on hard paper format. Discussion board posts and replies I must say are extremely helpful and resourceful when I was running on fumes. This provides an excellent alternative to finding out a solution if needed. Nine times out of ten, other students had similar questions or doubts and discussions boards provided a quick and easy fix to my solution. Plus it was uplifting to see that other people agreed with your way of thinking. Some responses really were outstanding and extremely well put together. Posting blog responses were also a great way to spread the word and express yourself to a greater audience. In this particular case, I don't have many followers, but I have seen the effectiveness of blogging in my previous class. I have started a blog for my Spanish classes and Intend to use the account to its fullest extent. I am looking forward to and plan to utilize any and all information and strategies learned throughout the 10 weeks of the educational program. My action research project will concentrate on two main factors 1. Staff Development: In what ways can increased technological based professional development improve the use of technology within classrooms across Sam Rayburn High School? and 2. Curriculum Development: In what ways can consistent educator cross-curricular use of technology in classrooms impact students leaning development across Sam Rayburn High School? So with this in mind, I will take the challenge that hope that I come out victorious in the process since students educational growth and development is our ultimate concern. I wish you all the best of luck in your future endeavors and thanks for all your support and undivided time.
Works Cited:
Dr. Kirk Lewis, Pasadena ISD Superintendent, Lamar University Week 2 Video Interviews.
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