My first goal for this module was to learn more about what the experts as well as my colleagues thought about technology and teaching. To an extent, I achieved this goal. Some of the readings were the usual doomsday. For example, Audrey Watters and Tim Fawn were very depressing. At the same time, Martha’s reading was interesting and inspiring. In fact, I want to do the things she did at the University of Mary Washington. I also like Warger, Tom, and Gregory Dobbin reading. I appreciated their global perspective and how regional and cultural contexts play a role in what and how educators use technology. One thing that got me curious was the concept of digital citizenship. I need to investigate more about this idea. From the interactions with my colleagues, I realized we are all at various stages of our careers and teach in different fields, yet we share common goals and challenges.

My second goal for this module was finding more practical ways to help my student connect with native speakers of Spanish. I achieved not by the work on the module but through my students, who are already exploring conversational apps and connecting with people from around the world. However, the module gave this idea of creating an activity where my students research and evaluate learning apps. This embodies the module’s concept of helping students become agents of their own learning through technology.

This module also made me reflect on larger topics such access and equity, and what free public education means. The idea that technology is not a surrogate of pedagogy, but it can determine what and how we teach was illuminating. Moreover, positionality vis-à-vis technology was an empowering concept. My only suggestion for the future is using more upbeat readings and, perhaps, an inspiring TED talk so I can happily dance like Carlton with the successes and possibilities that digital technologies can bring to education.

¡Muchas gracias!

Wilson

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