Final Metacognitive Post
When I think back on our course the learning and assignments that stand out in my mind the most are; net neutrality, the advertisement deconstruction assignment and our adolescent interviews. If it weren't for this class, I probably would not have given these things much thought. I had never even heard of net neutrality and now that I have, I realize how important it is. I can't imagine not having access to the Internet and websites that are very helpful each day. Having them censored would be awful; I use the Internet for school, work and social reasons. If these freedoms were taken away I'd be lost; we rely so heavily on the Internet and the fact that we are free to "surf" on it. This class is the reason I now know what net neutrality is and understand that it has been threatened.
The advertisement deconstruction project really opened my eyes. We watch TV, flip through magazines and see billboards all of the time and don't really pay attention to the visuals that are being sent our way. When we were asked to deconstruct an ad I was nervous and I thought, "that won't take long" but when I sat down and really started to look at objects in my advertisement and what they were suggesting, I realized how much each ad is subconsciously sending our way! It's amazing what we are bombarded with on a daily basis; it makes me nervous that our children are subjected to many of the ads you see. I haven't had cable in a year and recently I thought that maybe it was time to get it again but after that project, I realized I'm doing myself and my daughter a favor by not having it!
My adolescent interview was a pleasant surprise. To hear my young person talk about the Internet the way they did was heartwarming. To realize that not every teen out there is glued to their phone was encouraging. If you walk down a mall or go to the movies you see many teens on their phones; surfing the web or on social media. Conducting the interview really gave me hope for future generations; it broke the stereotype that I had built in my head about every teen being addicted to the Internet and technology. Some children do still enjoy the fresh air and nature!
My "ah ha moments" were all when I was enlightened on a new area of technology; I now realize I'm behind in the times and need to keep up with the ever changing world of new media and new literacies. Technology will never be my strong suit or a huge love in my life but taking this course has definitely opened my eyes to the many possibilities. I can bring things into my own classroom and share with other teachers; creating presentations for my students (power point and YouTube),my literacy guide and teaching a good balance of old and new technology integration in the classroom.
I found this course to be entertaining, enjoyable, thought provoking and educational. Throughout the experience I found myself confused, agreeing, disagreeing, and learning. I am taking away new and powerful information this semester that will stick with me. I will never be a technology junkie but I feel as though I've come a long way in a short amount of time! Thank you to all of my classmates for your unending encouragement! I wish you all the best!
