Reflections of Lesson Plan #1

As Simple as Possible

            The lesson planning process for my first technology lesson plan was uncomfortable. I had no idea that an ASSURE model for lesson planning existed and was required to use it. I was also highly encouraged to use search engines other than Yahoo! and Google. Although lesson planning is not new to me, I had a difficult time aligning the objectives with the evaluation. Overall, I was taken out of my comfort zone with this lesson plan and wanted the lesson to be as simple as possible.

            Using the ASSURE model for lesson planning was a rewarding experience. I was fortunate enough to find a simple ASSURE model format that was simple to use and gave me all the information I needed (Heinich). The model showed me that my lesson plans need to be detailed so that another person can teach the lesson exactly as I intend it to be taught. It also allowed me to work with a different lesson planning format that I can use in the future when I become a professional. Working with the ASSURE model helped me to gain self-confidence especially when it comes to using new technology.

            For many years, I relied on Yahoo! and Google for all of my online searching. Not only was it difficult to think of different search engines, I had to stop myself every time I automatically typed Google in the address bar when I needed to search for something. Not only did I use Dogpile and Bing to do some online research, I also looked at various sites on Delicious. Using different methods of conducting an online search helped me gather a wealth of information for my first lesson plan.

            The most difficult task of this assignment dealt with the objectives and evaluation. In previous lesson plans, I never had to have an evaluation for each objective. Also, I was not properly taught how to come up with objectives until the in class session. Although the task was difficult, I see why it is necessary to come up with objectives and evaluate properly. In creating this lesson plan, I fulfilled the second National Educational Technology Standards and Performance Indicators for Teachers (NETS*T). The second NETS*T reads: “Teachers design, develop, and evaluate authentic learning experiences and assessment incorporating contemporary tools and resources to maximize content learning in context and to develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes identified in the NETS•S. Teachers” (ISTE). This process that I have learned regarding objectives and evaluations will help me with future lesson planning experiences.

            No matter how uncomfortable creating my first lesson plan was, I succeeded. I was able to create the lesson plan using a new format, the ASSURE model. Search engines such as Dogpile and Bing helped me find information on the ASSURE model and provided some examples of objectives. I learned a life-long lesson when it comes to objectives and evaluations. My confidence regarding the ASSURE model and integrating technology in the classroom has grown tremendously and I cannot wait until I become a teacher so that I can finally put what I have learned into practice.

References:

Heinich, Molenda, Russell, Smaldino (1999). The ASSURE model. Retrieved February 15, 2010, from: http://www2.unca.edu/education/edtech/techcourse/assure.htm

ISTE National Educational Technology Standards (NETS*T) and Performance Indicators for Teachers: Nets for Teachers (2008). Official Web Site: http://www.iste.org/Content/NavigationMenu/NETS/ForTeachers/2008Standards/NETS_for_Teachers_2008.htm