How Far I Have Come…
On Pursuing My Academic Goals
Jennifer Ivanoff
When I started out my search for higher education in order to complete my master’s degree, I had very high expectations. I wanted to make sure that the university I chose to apply to would have a program that would assist me in achieving my goals. My primary goal was to learn to create a teaching environment where students have the resources to create meaningful assignments through the use of technology.
I have always loved technology, especially computers. Once I played Math Blasters, I was hooked! I knew that I wanted to learn more about technology and how it can be used effectively to reach my students’ diverse needs. That is why I sought out a master’s degree in educational technology. Looking back on the goal statement I submitted with my application to Michigan State University, I see that I wanted to accomplish a lot in a short period of time. As I have time to reflect, I note that some of my goals have stayed consistent, while others have changed.
One of my goals that has stayed consistent through my education is my desire to use new methods of teaching that include the use of technology. I have seen students who typically do not complete their assignments excel in projects that require them to use some form of technology. Whether it is shooting a short video and editing it in iMovie, or creating a PowerPoint that includes actions and sounds, they are learning in a way that is engaging to them.
Another goal I set for myself prior to starting my master’s was to become a technology specialist for a school or school district. This is still a position that I would like to hold, but right now I am loving working with my students with disabilities too much to change positions. I can see myself becoming a technology specialist somewhere down the road, but I have too much passion for working with people with disabilities to change my career path now.
Another goal I had was to become a part of the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE). I would still love to become a part of this organization and collaborate with others to create a learning environment to meet the needs of the diverse learners I encounter on a daily basis. However, I do not see myself having an incredibly active role in ISTE at the current moment. I still look forward to attending one of the summer conferences in the years to come.
After looking back on what I wanted to accomplish during my master’s programs, I have hope for my future. I know that my big dreams have changed a little, but have not been completely dismissed. I look forward to teaching my students how to showcase their work by creating their own electronic portfolios next school year. The future excites me!
I have always loved technology, especially computers. Once I played Math Blasters, I was hooked! I knew that I wanted to learn more about technology and how it can be used effectively to reach my students’ diverse needs. That is why I sought out a master’s degree in educational technology. Looking back on the goal statement I submitted with my application to Michigan State University, I see that I wanted to accomplish a lot in a short period of time. As I have time to reflect, I note that some of my goals have stayed consistent, while others have changed.
One of my goals that has stayed consistent through my education is my desire to use new methods of teaching that include the use of technology. I have seen students who typically do not complete their assignments excel in projects that require them to use some form of technology. Whether it is shooting a short video and editing it in iMovie, or creating a PowerPoint that includes actions and sounds, they are learning in a way that is engaging to them.
Another goal I set for myself prior to starting my master’s was to become a technology specialist for a school or school district. This is still a position that I would like to hold, but right now I am loving working with my students with disabilities too much to change positions. I can see myself becoming a technology specialist somewhere down the road, but I have too much passion for working with people with disabilities to change my career path now.
Another goal I had was to become a part of the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE). I would still love to become a part of this organization and collaborate with others to create a learning environment to meet the needs of the diverse learners I encounter on a daily basis. However, I do not see myself having an incredibly active role in ISTE at the current moment. I still look forward to attending one of the summer conferences in the years to come.
After looking back on what I wanted to accomplish during my master’s programs, I have hope for my future. I know that my big dreams have changed a little, but have not been completely dismissed. I look forward to teaching my students how to showcase their work by creating their own electronic portfolios next school year. The future excites me!