EDLD+5365+Reflection



EDLD 5365 Web Design and Development Web 2.0 tools are redesigning the way we approach the internet in education. Solomon and Schrum discussed the “transformation in thinking” (2007) that is occurring, which has lead to the promotion of more creative and collaborative learning methods. Within this course, a fundamental foundation was laid showing not only how schools can utilize the web to improve student achievement, but also the behind the scenes knowledge to have a successful and productive web site. Kaiser (2006) laid out easy to follow checklists to ensure that web sites are accessible to all and caters to users of all skill levels, which aligns with proficiency eleven, understanding the principles to troubleshoot web design in order to reach a diverse audience. When I first saw enrolled in this course, my mind envisioned a very different approach to the topic of Web Design. My impression was that we would be learning the ins and outs of how to design and lay out a web page, but much more was gained from this course than what my limited scope predicted. By learning about the best methods for web development, including security protocol, design templates, content management, among a multitude of other concerns, I became aware of just how much I needed to learn. It is humbling to be reminded of how much is left to discover and that no matter how much you feel you have a grasp on the entirety of a concept, you typically have only touched the tip of the iceberg. The sixth standard for Technology Facilitation and Leadership stipulates the need to understand social, ethical and human issues surrounding technology usage and asserts that the technology leaders do their part to develop programs that incorporate all learners and advance student learning (Williamson & Redish, 2009). This course allowed a deep look into that standard as the guidelines and plans were developed in creating the Web Policy for the district. As Google Documents were utilized to create these policies, a tool was discovered that has allowed me to help a multitude of students. As I teach in a Title 1 school, many of our students come for economically challenged backgrounds. Often times, if they have a computer at home, they do not have Microsoft Office installed. By utilizing Google Documents, I have been able to pass on this knowledge to students who now have unlimited access to their documents and can be more productive at home with the right tools to complete their assignments. Kaiser, S. (2006). //Deliver first class web sites: 101 essential checklists.// Collingwood, VIC, Australia: Sitepoint. Solomon, G. & Schrum, L. (2007) //Web 2.0: New tools, new schools.// Eugene, OR: International Society for Technology in Education Williamson, J. & Redish, T. (2009). //ISTE’s technology facilitation and leadership standards: What every K- 12 leader should know and be able to do//. Eugene, OR: International Society for Technology in Education.