I take it that since I am writing here that means I survived the first quarter of this program and the first half of my first year of teaching. It really blows my mind that just this time last year I was only student teaching and having a great time doing it. Now, I have gone on TWO overnight trips with two different grade levels and being in close quarters with the parents of my students who quite terrify me at times, but I am happy to say that I survived and I am really enjoying teaching at the school I am at, and with the students I get to see every single day!
I started the year by doing Kahoot Quizzes. These quizzes are so engaging and my students absolutely love taking these quizzes. My students often complain when I have to give them a paper quiz because there isn't music going on in the background. I have found that this technology has been a success for me and for my students.
I have also been doing Padlet discussions with my students. They absolutely love it as well. They enjoy seeing their names on the board being lit up and being able to read what they wrote to share with the class.
My educational technology journey has been nothing but positive for me and seeing my students learn with devices is just as rewarding for me because I know my students are going to go so far in their learning and that makes me feel extremely happy.
As far as getting through this first year I would say it has been the hardest year that has every challenged me emotionally, physically, and mentally. I constantly say to myself that this whole experience could be worse and I am happy on where I am now.
Thats it for now unless I think of something else therapeutic to talk about....
S