Implementing Technology

Applying knowledge in the real world is an integral part of the learning process. This becomes even more applicable in the area of instructional technology. Throughout the SLIS instructional materials course we have been introduced to a variety of technologies. Many of us have found these Web 2.o skills both exciting and challenging. The challenges will continue as we find ways to implement them into our workplaces. I have several implementation plans as I begin a new career working in higher education.

As an essential skills advisor in the GED Academy, a special drop out recovery program offered at North Central Texas College, my duties will be both instructional and motivational. I am presently working on a wiki page to celebrate the accomplishments and successes of GED students. At first I planned to publish Success Stories in a weekly GED Academy newsletter. Instead, I am working on a wiki page that would accomplish this goal. Drop outs are used to looking at themselves as failures but the opportunity to post major and minor successes statements will allow them to overcome the failure image and focus on their success. The first wiki page will be devoted to Celebrate Success where students can post one sentence that describes a personal accomplishment. I hope that they will be able to see small success in their lives, like getting up at the first ring on the alarm clock. Additional pages will discuss goal setting, time management, and team work.

During the course, I found two specific sites, Glogster and Wordle, that I knew would be implemented in my instruction. Students in the program will be required to complete a journal and the Wordle will assist them in the creation of a personal web cloud poster. This will become their journal cover. The use of word clouds will will also incorporate instructional preparation for the writing portion of the GED. These posters have the potential of bringing inspiration to students that strive to accomplish personal goals.

The Glogster site will create a photo poster and will be used on graduation day. The GED Academy is funded by a TEA grant and requires placement in career/technology training. The goal of GED Academy is to develop a connection to higher education and to facilitate this goal a cap and gown ceremony will be conducted. The Glogster site will create a special graduation picture that will be a visual reminder of their success and a motivational tool to help them reach their next goal.

Student drop out rate has the attention of politicians and lawmakers throughout the state of Texas . I believe the implementation of new technology might attract those students who do not succeed in a normal classroom setting. The obstacles and poor choices made in the past can be overcome, and perhaps the implementation of social networking, wikis, blogs, and other Web 2.o technologies will make a difference in their lives. I hope so!