Below are my reflections on my current levels of technology integration according to this Technology Integration Matrix.

Within my role as library media specialist, I teach technology skills to students in grades K-6 during their library "specials" class.  Currently I have a lab of desktop computers to utilize during class time.

Learning Environment Characteristics
(each rated on a scale of Entry--> Adoption--> Adaptation--> Infusion--> Transformation)

Active- When it comes to creating an active learning environment, my lessons usually fall in the Adoption category.  Students do not just passively watch me utilize technology during lessons, they actually get to use their own computers to participate.  However, I do not give them much opportunity to explore the tools independently or choose their own tools.  I typically give them specific tasks to complete and tell them which tools to use to complete the task.

Collaborative- This is definitely a weak area for me.  I almost always have students work independently at their computers.  I know this is an excuse, but our school blocks so many social media tools that I do not feel like I have the necessary tools to facilitate collaboration that way.  I'm definitely in the Entry level for this category.

Constructive- I am in the Adoption stage for this category.  I aim to teach students how to find information online, but I typically restrict them to sites and sources that I have previewed for accuracy and appropriate content.  I teach them to use resources like Britannica Online School Edition, but I don't spend enough time teaching them how to find information on the wider web or give them time to explore freely.

Authentic- I typically align lessons to grade level standards (ex. 4th grade students look for information about famous Hoosiers).  Sometimes I give students more choice when they are creating products.  For example, when I was teaching 3rd grade students the ins and outs of PowerPoint, I let them make presentations about their personal interests.  Usually though, my aim is to teach them how to use a tool in connection with academic curriculum.  I would say I'm in the Adaptation stage for this category.

Goal Directed- This is another Entry level category for me.  I almost always give students step-by-step directions without opportunity for them to plan or reflect for themselves.


I undoubtedly see opportunity for growth in these five areas as I look at how I'm going to change my curriculum for the coming school year.  One positive is that my school is creating Google Docs accounts for all students this year.  I am excited about the opportunity for collaboration between students.  There are so many possibilities for students to communicate with each other and create products together with the tools included in Google Docs.  I will also be able to closely monitor students' products and provide input through that tool.  I look to move into the infusion stage in that category.  I also plan on looking for more opportunities to give students choices in products they create and the tools that they use.  As I introduce them to more tools and give them practice using them, I will feel better about giving them a choice and having students within a class using different tools simultaneously.  As I work through this online and blended learning class, I hope to be introduced to more tools that I can use with my students to teach them how to find information online and present their ideas in creative ways.