Seven Habits

Upon reading the article about the seven habits teachers who use technology effectively embrace, I wanted to take the time to stop and think about my own teaching practices.  The seven habits shared in the article are: They always start with the why, they are malleable and can easily adapt, they embrace change, they share, they think win-win, they are thorough and think ahead, and they actively care,

1. They always start with the why

This concept is simply yet most often forgotten. I have learned through my years of educator training that it is imperative to always think about why you're doing what you are doing. It is not beneficial for anyone if you just use technology because it is there. Creating a meaningful purpose is what will drive effective instruction and I believe that as a teacher I do a good job at this because of the training I have had.

2. They are malleable and can easily adapt

Understanding that the world of technology doesn't stay the same for long is important. Growing up in a digital age I am used to the constant stream of new technology and updates on pre-existing devices. In the classroom I will need to work on making sure I stay up  to date with the various websites, apps, and products I use in order to ensure I am adapting along with the technology.

3. They embrace change

I will be the first one to admit that when I was younger, change and I were not friends. I preferred the way things were and didn't like when things were different. As I went to college I soon learned to embrace change and I became aware of how wonderful it truly is. This mindset will help me effectively use technology because I will welcome change in the classroom with open arms, because I know that things become boring when they stay the same for too long. If I want to see growth in the classroom, change has to become a common thing.

4. They share

When it comes to sharing, I feel that I do a good job of this within a small scale. I tell those I am close with about what I am doing, and about effective things I have implemented. When I have my own classroom for the first time, I want to begin sharing on a larger scale. Using social media sites such as Instagram and Blogger are great ways to share with the world all of the great things happening inside of the classroom.

5. They think win-win

Using technology is great, but what makes it effective is mutual understanding and acceptance from all parties. Parents, students, and administrators all play a vital role in the success of a student. If they understand what you're doing inside the classroom and the purpose behind the technology being used, they will stand by you as the teacher and support your efforts.

6. They are thorough and think ahead 

The more prepared you are the better your students will do. Student success is directly correlated to the teacher. I know that this aspect of teaching is something I embrace and do well. I know the importance of thinking ahead and having everything for the lesson ready to go when the students arrive to class. Being unorganized creates chaos and stress and takes the focus away from what is supposed to be learned. When I have my own classroom I feel competent in my ability to create thorough lessons and know that I am prepared to answer any questions the students may have.

7. They actively care

As a teacher everything you do should be for your students. The lessons you teacher should be engaging because you know that if students are interested in what they're doing, they will learn more. Being a teacher requires you to constantly think about the students in your class and do everything in your power to help them become successful lifelong learners. When I have my own classroom I know that I will always put my students first and do what I need to, in order to ensure they have opportunities that help prepare them to become global citizens who believe that they can make a difference.

References:
[Untitled image about 7 technology habits]. Retrieved February 8. 2017, from http://www.teachthought.com/pedagogy/7-habits-of-highly-effective-teachers-who-effectively-use-technology/