ISLT 7360 Introduction to Web Development (Fall 2014)
Description: This course serves as an introduction to web authoring skills. By the end of the course each students can confidently use HTML5 to build accessible, W3C compliant web pages, manage files on a server, work with different browsers, understand basic user testing and write basic CSS code.
Reflection: I had previously taught myself HTML and basic CSS several years ago while maintaining a music blog, so I really enjoyed the opportunity to refine my skills, find solutions to problems I was previously unable to solve, and generally develop better code writing habits. One of the most valuable skills I learned was how to maintain files on a server, as all of my previous experience with file hosting involved working with a platform that automatically assigned links to pages and linked them for me. I also improved my Photoshop skills in order to produce banners, splash images, and special headers for my websites.
Description: This course serves as an introduction to web authoring skills. By the end of the course each students can confidently use HTML5 to build accessible, W3C compliant web pages, manage files on a server, work with different browsers, understand basic user testing and write basic CSS code.
Reflection: I had previously taught myself HTML and basic CSS several years ago while maintaining a music blog, so I really enjoyed the opportunity to refine my skills, find solutions to problems I was previously unable to solve, and generally develop better code writing habits. One of the most valuable skills I learned was how to maintain files on a server, as all of my previous experience with file hosting involved working with a platform that automatically assigned links to pages and linked them for me. I also improved my Photoshop skills in order to produce banners, splash images, and special headers for my websites.
ISLT 7377: Introduction to Technology in Schools (Fall 2014)
Description: Study of theories and practices associated with educational technology. Explores basic instructional design processes and strategies for integrating technology into teaching and learning. Provides an overview of the EdTech filed and a survey of emerging trends.
Reflection: I think of this class on a daily basis as I prepare my lessons for the week. I've been tasked as the "technology person" for my grade-level team, so I constantly consider whether the technology I'm integrating into our plans and projects are a tool to show off student learning or whether it's overshadowing the learning. I believe this course made me a more savvy consumer of educational apps and programs.
ISLT 7361: Introduction to Digital Media Fall 2014)
Description: Hands-on approach to multimedia production techniques. Develops understanding of image software, video software, and scanners, digital cameras, digital video cameras, graphics tablets.
Reflection: As a complete neophyte to photo editing with programs like Photoshop and GIMP, this class was initially a huge challenge for me. I struggled with getting to know the programs--especially GIMP--but really enjoyed the process and felt like the experience was valuable by the time I completed the course. I was also excited to work on two strengths of mine: audio and video production and editing, and I felt the course projects allowed me to express my creativity while acquiring and refining my media skills.
Description: Hands-on approach to multimedia production techniques. Develops understanding of image software, video software, and scanners, digital cameras, digital video cameras, graphics tablets.
Reflection: As a complete neophyte to photo editing with programs like Photoshop and GIMP, this class was initially a huge challenge for me. I struggled with getting to know the programs--especially GIMP--but really enjoyed the process and felt like the experience was valuable by the time I completed the course. I was also excited to work on two strengths of mine: audio and video production and editing, and I felt the course projects allowed me to express my creativity while acquiring and refining my media skills.