Ready for Tech: Ann Blaauw's Reflection Essay
The end is finally in sight: my time as a student is coming to a close. I entered the world of education in 2008, as a post-graduate in the education program at MSU. I became a teacher in 2010, and knew from the start that I was interested in pursuing a Masters in Educational Technology. I had always been curious about the possibilities offered by technology in the classroom, and knew from friends and colleagues that MSU had an excellent program. As I spent more time in the classroom, I could not help but be aware of the fact that education is becoming increasingly technology-based. From the SmartBoard in my classroom to the online testing resources in my school, technology-based education is everywhere.
Looking back, I knew that technology was important to education, but I did not understand how it was important. When I wrote my Goals Statement for my application back in March of 2012, I had hopes of learning how to use technology to more effectively engage and educate students. I have found myself unable to experience any technology now without examining it for potential in a classroom. Although my personal life is quite different now than it was when I began the program, the potential of educational technology in the classroom is quite nearly a constant thought in my mind.
I have, since enrolling in the MAET program, picked up my life and moved to New Jersey with my husband, so he can be a research scientist for Rutgers University. This came at a timely point in my life, as I was beginning to question my desire to remain a classroom teacher. I hoped the move would give me the chance to sort out the possibilities ahead of me. Since moving, I have realized that I am very interested in a career working with students as an educational technology leader or integrator, rather than primarily as a social studies teacher. This program has given me this confidence, and has opened my eyes to the endless possibilities technology can offer everyone, particularly for young adults and children. The MAET program has helped me clarify my personal goals with those of education through technology.
Looking back, I knew that technology was important to education, but I did not understand how it was important. When I wrote my Goals Statement for my application back in March of 2012, I had hopes of learning how to use technology to more effectively engage and educate students. I have found myself unable to experience any technology now without examining it for potential in a classroom. Although my personal life is quite different now than it was when I began the program, the potential of educational technology in the classroom is quite nearly a constant thought in my mind.
I have, since enrolling in the MAET program, picked up my life and moved to New Jersey with my husband, so he can be a research scientist for Rutgers University. This came at a timely point in my life, as I was beginning to question my desire to remain a classroom teacher. I hoped the move would give me the chance to sort out the possibilities ahead of me. Since moving, I have realized that I am very interested in a career working with students as an educational technology leader or integrator, rather than primarily as a social studies teacher. This program has given me this confidence, and has opened my eyes to the endless possibilities technology can offer everyone, particularly for young adults and children. The MAET program has helped me clarify my personal goals with those of education through technology.