Week 1 Reflection

What were your primary take aways from the learning module?

    My key takeaways from this module is that e

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ducational reform and the role of technology are crucial in preparing students for success in both work and life . A comprehensive framework integrates essential skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and collaboration, along with core academic subjects such as English, mathematics, science, and the arts. 21st-century themes like global awareness, financial and civic literacy, and health literacy should be integrated into the curriculum (Battelle for Kids). To succeed in modern environments, students must develop proficiency in information, media, and technology skills, as well as life and career skills such as adaptability, leadership, and productivity. Effective reform requires aligning support systems like assessments, professional development, and learning environments. Digital learning plays a vital role in modernization, offering individualized instruction and accessibility, though significant obstacles remain, including outdated governance and financing structures. Teacher roles in digital learning must evolve, with policies on professional development and compensation requiring reform. Quality control in digital learning should balance input regulation, outcome-based accountability, and market-based oversight. Additionally, school finance reform is necessary to ensure flexibility in spending on digital learning, and governance challenges must be addressed to foster innovation and technological adoption (Hassell et al). Policy recommendations include relaxing certification restrictions, supporting student choice in online learning, and ensuring accountability through transparent information sharing.  Finally, Kirp argues that The best way to improve schools is to focus on building strong relationships between teachers and students, and to make sure that students feel supported and cared for.

 

What are your opinions regarding what you learned? 

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    As a school-based technology specialist, I see firsthand how integrating technology and 21st-century skills can transform education. I fully agree with the need to modernize our schools by focusing on critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration—skills that prepare students not just for exams, but for life. Digital learning, in particular, offers incredible potential to reach students where they are, providing personalized learning paths and opening up high-quality options that were previously unavailable. Every day, I work with teachers who want to make the most of technology in their classrooms, and I know that empowering them through professional development, updated certification processes, and flexible policies is key to making this shift successful. When we align resources and embrace these changes, we’re not just teaching students how to use technology; we’re giving them the tools to thrive in the future. Reforming how schools are funded and governed to better support digital learning will allow educators like me to help schools fully realize the benefits of technology, ensuring that every student gets the opportunity to succeed. 

 

Do your experiences support or contradict the materials in this learning module? 

    As a school-based technology specialist who works with K-6th graders, and having previously been a general education teacher for elementary students, I’ve experienced firsthand the impact of integrating technology into classrooms. I’ve seen how technology can transform a traditional lesson into something more dynamic and engaging, capturing the interest of young learners while helping them develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills. Whether it's through interactive platforms or digital storytelling tools, technology allows students to explore subjects in a way that’s more hands-on and personalized.

    When I was a general education teacher, I often felt constrained by the traditional delivery systems that didn’t always cater to the diverse needs of my students. Now, as I support K-6 teachers in leveraging digital learning, I’m seeing how technology provides flexibility, helping students at different levels of understanding to thrive. The challenge remains in making sure teachers feel equipped and supported in this transition, which is why professional development and policy changes are essential. When we reform certification, funding, and governance, we create an environment where technology can truly enhance learning—not just for a few students, but for all. This is the future of education, and it’s exciting to be part of this shift in both my current and past roles.

Image by Lynbrook ES from 6th Grade BTSN Slides