Dear Educational Technology Faculty,

Before embarking on this journey through the Educational Technology program, my professional path had been deeply rooted in the educational sector, specifically within the IDEA charter school system since 2018. My roles have varied from being a dedicated teacher to stepping into the shoes of a testing coordinator for the college prep for two school years before returning to teaching in the 2023 to 2024 school year. This dynamic journey has not only shaped my perspective on education but also highlighted the pivotal role technology plays within it and the corporate world.

My interest in educational technology, although not initially defined, was sparked through my experience as a testing coordinator. The transition to 100% online state testing in Texas, necessitated by the state's decision, became a turning point. This shift demanded a complete transformation in the strategies, content, and software utilized in the classroom. It was a period of challenge and change, with many teachers struggling to adapt, and a noticeable wave of retirements among the more seasoned educators. These challenges laid bare the urgent need for practical training and engaging personal development courses for teachers, a task I found to be both daunting and exhilarating.

The motivation to dive deeper into Educational Technology stemmed from this critical period. Witnessing firsthand the struggles and the retirement of seasoned teachers due to the shift towards digital testing convinced me of the need for more robust educational technology solutions. I realized my initial conceptions of educational technology were limited. It was not just about using digital tools but about fundamentally rethinking how education could be delivered and experienced. My goals and expectations were realigned; I was eager to understand the true essence of educational technology, to unravel its potential to transform education in ways I had not previously imagined.

During my transformative journey through the Educational Technology program, I had the privilege of contributing to and leading several pivotal projects, each serving as a cornerstone in my e-portfolio. These projects not only honed my skills but also deepened my understanding of the vast potential of educational technology. 

EDTC 6323: Interactive Multimedia Object: This project was a deep dive into the world of console gaming, specifically focusing on enabling gamers to stream on Twitch using GoLightstream.com. By guiding users through account creation, DNS settings adjustment, and scene setup, this unit targeted gamers with a basic to intermediate tech background. It was a blend of tutorials, multimedia resources, and exercises aimed at enhancing engagement and learning. Feedback mechanisms like quizzes and Google Forms provided valuable insights for improvement, marking my first step towards integrating technology with user experience.

EDTC 6325: E-Learning Module: Tailored for the nonprofit sector, this e-learning course aimed to equip individuals with graphic design skills for digital advocacy. Covering design principles, Canva use, and the adaptation of visuals for digital platforms, it offered a practical approach to creating impactful content. This project underscored the importance of visual communication in advocacy, shaping my understanding of digital content creation's role in educational technology.

EDTC 6321: Instructional Unit (IU’s 1-5): Pencil-Gripping Techniques Instructional Unit: Focused on special education, this unit was designed to empower 504 Special Program managers and writing/ELAR teachers with techniques to teach proper pencil gripping. Conducted in the IDEA Quest library, it utilized diverse technologies to facilitate learning. The project emphasized the importance of accommodations in education, reflecting my commitment to inclusive teaching practices.

EDTC 6332: Educational Technology Practicum: Perhaps the most impactful, this instructional unit supported veterans in transitioning to civilian life, emphasizing personal learning styles and Personal Development Plans (PDP). Through interactive technologies and community engagement tools, it offered a personalized learning experience. This project was a testament to the program's potential to transform lives, resonating deeply with my own journey as a veteran overcoming learning challenges.

Each project contributed uniquely to my skillset, preparing me for a career in instructional design at the corporate level. The challenges I faced, particularly as a veteran with learning challenges, taught me invaluable lessons on learning styles and adult education. Collaborating with peers and receiving feedback from instructors were instrumental in refining my projects and approach, underscoring the collaborative nature of educational technology.

The most meaningful transformation came from witnessing the positive impact of these projects on my peers' lives. Hearing their feedback and seeing the practical applications of my work reaffirmed my belief in the power of educational technology to make a difference.

In reflection, these artifacts are not just a showcase of my growth throughout the program, but a testament to the profound influence educational technology can have on individual lives and communities. They represent a journey of learning, adaptation, and impact, highlighting my evolution from a participant to a contributor in the field of educational technology.

Understanding Development and Learning Styles: Early in my coursework, through EDFR 6300 and EDFR 6302, I grasped the crucial importance of understanding development and learning styles. This realization hit me particularly hard as a veteran. The learning style I had adapted during my time in service differed significantly from what I had known in my K-12 education years. This "ah-ha" moment was pivotal, highlighting the necessity of abandoning traditional one-size-fits-all approaches in favor of more personalized, student-centered learning methodologies. The key takeaway here is the importance of recognizing and adapting to diverse learning styles, not only in others but also in oneself. This understanding is crucial for designing educational technology solutions that cater to varied learning needs.

If there's one mindset that's essential for success in educational technology (or any field, for that matter), it's maintaining a positive and open attitude towards feedback, review, and implementation. The willingness to listen, adapt, and evolve based on feedback is what transforms good instructional design into great and impactful educational experiences. This open-mindedness to continuous improvement and learning has been a cornerstone of my development, and it's a mindset I'd urge everyone to adopt from the start.

The potential of technology, especially artificial intelligence (AI), to transform education excites me. I envision AI playing a pivotal role in personalizing learning experiences, making education more adaptive and responsive to individual learner profiles. My ambition is to be at the forefront of integrating AI into educational technology solutions, ensuring that these advancements are harnessed to support adult learners effectively. The challenge, as I see it, is not just in adopting new technologies but in ensuring they are inclusive and accessible, bridging gaps rather than widening them.

To stay at the cutting edge of Educational Technology, I plan to continue learning and exploring, particularly in the realms of AI and its applications in adult education. The comprehensive and cohesive structure of the Masters course in Educational Technology has been instrumental in my development, providing a solid foundation upon which I can build. The program's consistent flow and design significantly eased my transition back into academic life, managing my anxiety and enabling me to engage deeply with the content. Moving forward, I will carry the lessons learned and the approaches experienced into my professional practice.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all instructors and peers who have been part of this journey. The insights and support I've received have been invaluable, shaping not only my understanding of Educational Technology but also my vision for its future. As I embark on this next phase of my career, I am filled with determination to make a tangible difference in the lives of adult learners, leveraging technology to create inclusive, effective, and transformative educational experiences.

The journey through the Educational Technology program has not just been about acquiring knowledge and skills; it has been about envisioning a future where education is accessible, engaging, and empowering for all. With this vision in mind, I step forward, ready to contribute, innovate, and inspire in the field of Educational Technology endeavors, eager to make a meaningful impact in the field of educational technology.