Project Evaluation

The TechQuest will continue to evolve as I address problems of practice with the unique types of functions throughout my career as a mathematics teacher. I will continue to explore the possibilities of GeoGebra as an effective tool for representing mathematical functions and continue to read current related research. I have become comfortable using the process laid out during this TechQuest will apply the algorithm to additional TechQuests in the future. My new familiarity with scholarly research engines will make further research time efficient and focused. I have learned and sharpened the skills necessary to analyzing technology for its pedagogical use. The abundance of technology that exists on the web is staggering and can prove to be overwhelming. The structure of the TechQuest helped develop the skills necessary to applying technology to educational concerns. Student learning should always focus the technology, and it seems that is not often the case. The TechQuest began with the identification of the problem of practice and followed with finding the appropriate technology to address the problem. We, as educators, often want technology that can do a million different things, but we should be focusing on technology that addresses an educational need in a way that cannot be done as effectively otherwise. Technology should not be brought into the classroom just for the sake of having technology.

The next time I proceed in a TechQuest project, I will pick a problem of practice that is more specific. The concept of the function is very broad and covers multiple years of mathematics. I should have focused on one particular type of function such as the linear function or sinusoidal functions. I believe that narrowing the project would result in a project that has a smaller development cycle. Educators continue to reflect upon lessons and technology and shape the malleable lessons we create. This TechQuest that I have begun to implement will continue until I retire as a teacher. Technology will evolve and problems of practice will be addressed in a plethora of ways, and it is my job as an educator to continue to improve upon my pedagogical strategies.

It is estimated that the modern human originated 200,000 years ago, and it is believed that written word started around 5000 years ago. Humans did not have the necessary transference of knowledge to develop the written word systems for 195,000 or so years, yet, since the development of word systems we have advanced technology to the point that we can instantly share information across the globe. The advent of the internet has allowed the sharing of information among students and professionals alike, and we now have the ability to evolve education by creating a network of highly informed educators by sharing content. The internet is providing a global landscape in which educators can collaboratively research and create educational content that is based on research-proven educational strategies. I would like to become part of the larger discussion and help create and share content that other educators can use as well.