Once upon a time, there was a grad student who took a digital technology course. Here is what she learned along the way...

I am very comfortable with technology and enjoy playing around with it. I find tutorials and videos that are helpful if I get stuck. I love implementing new technologies into the classroom and now in the library. Now I can take what I’ve learned in this class and share with my staff. 

What has excited me?

    Designing a library for UDL and IDEA students helped me to see where weaknesses are . While budget wise I cannot widen doorways, I can make the library more accessible to those with disabilities. Also, changing signage with large print and more pictorals to serve all. 

    AI-assisted newsletter will give me time freed up for other tasks. Being intentional about prompts and as specific as possible can minimize time constraints on it. 

    Looking into collaborative apps in this class will give students different platforms for guided inquiry or group work. 

What was difficult for me?

    Group project for lesson plans for Guided Inquiry. We were collaborating on Nearpod but had a lot of issues seeing the edits we each made. We wasted a lot of time editing only to see that they were not saved on the original. 

    These are not difficult, but difficult to face. Our Acceptable Use Policy needs some improvement so I am going to edit it within the first nine weeks. 

    Also, the library has no social media presence so I am going to work on finishing our Google Site and add social media accounts for the library.

Which will benefit students most?

         In the book, Chapter 5 has a 5 step process to making a difference. I am on step 4 in the process and I am looking forward to working with my secondary students on what is lacking in the library to make them successful. 

    With teachers, I am planning on beginning the year with some professional development that can help them implement easy tech so start the year off right and helps them feel encouraged.

Updating the technology on our campus will benefit everyone. I am excited to share how the Library can help staff and students feel like it’s necessary for the collaborative success.