Reflection #2 - Learning Specialist/Instructional Designer Proposal

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Image Source: uxplanet.org

It was really interesting to go through the process to create this technology proposal. It really made me think and step outside of what I was used to doing as an educator. Although it was in my wheelhouse as a special education teacher, it made me think about how I could use technology to enhance the student progress information we send out to parents each quarter. I was glad that I chose to focus in this area because it is relevant to what I do in my teaching position.

I am still excited about this topic. I think it has potential to be implemented in my building at the 8th grade level. The peers that I received feedback from enjoyed my proposal and thought it could be beneficial for our parents. They really liked the aspect of getting more parents invested by encouraging them to ask questions through the use of a Google Form. One thing that we will have to work on figuring out is the best way to complete the necessary translations. It may take some time, but it will be the best for all parties involved in the long run. 

I think the most positive thing for me out of this proposal process was getting such great feedback from my colleagues and Dominican classmates. I was reading through the discussion posts the other night, and I was surprised to see that Amy had shared my proposal with the entire special education department at her school. I knew how this proposal could benefit the parents in my community, but didn't broaden my horizons to think that this could be expanded into benefitting other schools. It was really cool to see this.  I do not have negatives with this proposal journey. It has been a great experience.

I think that the technology specialist roles are important to schools. They help us implement technology that can enhance our teaching and building as a whole. The proposals that these individuals develop are not simple. They require thoughtful planning and preparation to get them off the ground and running. They also need to alter their plans based on the feedback that they receive from their peers. Without these positions in our buildings, we may overlook implementing some tech initiatives that would be beneficial to our staff and students. 

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