I have been in the teaching profession for the last 9 years. Last year, I got a chance to pursue my studies with my ‘Master of Education (M.Ed) ‘ at the University of Regina, Saskatchewan. Before coming to Canada, I lived in India with my family and friends. Several theories and philosophies that influence my teaching journey include constructivist theories of knowledge and learning, which have greatly impacted my classroom practices. My teaching method is based on experiential learning, integrating project-based learning, simulations, and field trips to encourage hands-on activities and real-world application of knowledge.

According to constructivism, students build knowledge through experiences and reflection. Piaget emphasized developmental phases and learning as expanding on existing knowledge, while Vygotsky introduced the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) and highlighted the importance of social interaction. My teaching method is based on experiential learning, integrating project-based learning, simulations, and field trips to encourage hands-on activities and real-world application of knowledge.

In my years of teaching, my views on knowledge and learning have changed as I’ve gained experience and participated in professional development. At the beginning of my career, behaviorist theories, especially B.F, influenced me. Skinner’s work on operant conditioning and the use of reinforcement in learning. However, with more experience, I found that behaviorism, while having its merits, often does not encourage deep, conceptual understanding. As a result, I shifted towards embracing constructivist approaches, which prioritize meaningful learning and the development of critical thinking skills.

I used to be afraid of incorporating technology into my teaching, fearing it might be more of a distraction than a learning aid. However, after reading Neil Postman’s “Five Things We Need to Know About Technological Change” and Tony Bates’ “A Short History of Educational Technology,” I have come to recognize the potential of technology to revolutionize education. I now utilize technology to facilitate interactive learning, provide immediate feedback, and create engaging, personalized learning experiences.

Although I strongly support constructivist approaches, I have also come to appreciate the value of direct instruction in certain situations. I’ve realized that not all students thrive in purely exploratory environments, and some concepts require explicit teaching for foundational understanding. As a result, I have adopted a more balanced approach, integrating direct instruction when necessary while still emphasizing active, student-centered learning.

My journey as an educator has been characterized by continuous reflection and adaptation, ensuring that my classroom practices align with my evolving understanding of how students learn best. I eagerly anticipate further growth and exploration in this ever-evolving field, always intending to provide the most effective and meaningful learning experiences for my students.

In the present times, the integration of digital tools, resources, and practices to improve teaching and learning processes is referred to as educational technology. It also involves the strategic application of technology to support educational advancement, accessibility, and innovation.

Throughout history, educational technology has progressed from straightforward teaching tools to intricate digital ecosystems. A great summary of this development may be found in Tony Bates’ “A Short History of Educational Technology,” which highlights significant turning points including the use of radio and television in the classroom, the development of personal computers, and the creation of the internet. Every technological development aims to raise the quality of education by increasing the accessibility and interactivity of learning. Neil Postman’s “Five Things We Need to Know About Technological Change” provides a critical viewpoint on the effects of technology, serving as a helpful reminder that all technologies have advantages as well as disadvantages. In the context of EdTech, Postman highlights the importance of closely examining technological advancements and their effects on society.

My experience with educational technology began during my early education. Initially, it felt like a supplement, used for presenting information. However, as I progressed through my studies and professional experiences, my perspective evolved. In my academic years, educational technology was limited to PowerPoint presentations and computer labs, making information more accessible but not fundamentally changing the learning process. During my graduate studies, educational technology became more integral, highlighting its potential to create engaging, interactive, and personalized learning environments.

The “Media Debate,” which pitted Clark and Kosma against one another, also brought viewpoints regarding the use of media in education. Kosma maintained that when media is integrated well, it can improve learning, contrary to Clark’s claim that media does not affect learning at all. This discussion highlights the significance of how educational technology is applied, as opposed to the technology itself.

As an educator, I have used educational technology to enhance teaching practices, including interactive tools, and digital assessments to support pedagogical goals. I used various new technological tools including graphic designing in courses like EC & I 804 Curriculum Development which made me feel confident. I have discovered that my experience as an educator in public schools and the Internet’s function has influenced my understanding of educational technology. Through the internet, I can now conduct topic research, find evidence for ideas, and pick up new knowledge. However, I didn’t get any exposure to technology like Smartboards, computers, laptops, and applications until I started working. The usage of computers and iPads gave me a better perspective on the benefits of technology for those students who face problems academically.

My comprehension of EdTech has been molded by an ongoing process of learning and adjustment, reflecting the ever-changing dynamic nature of education itself.