Final Blog

 Before joining the class, it might be sad to say, but I feel as if I truly did not understand what literacy really was. Nevertheless, I can confidently say that I truly understand what literacy is just from comparing and contrasting traditional literacy and new literacies. I’ve learned in this class that there is no wrong or right way to teach literacy, because all students are different. Some students are going to learn better through traditional literacies like reading books, and displaying their knowledge through standardized assessments, and writing essays without technology. But, there are going to be students who learn better through digital literacies by researching on the internet, watching videos, or listening to podcasts, and displaying their knowledge through different modes (ex, blogging, video blogging, podcasts, etc.).  

One topic that I specifically liked learning was teaching through video games. I found the TED Talk with Jane McGonigal specifically fascinating, with her talking about how video games can benefit students because they help create Super Empowered Hopeful Individuals. These individuals are eager to succeed, can effectively collaborate with others, and build their critical thinking skills. For someone who used to love playing video games, it was cool to hear positives about video games when I have only heard negatives my whole life. Nevertheless, I found the assignment of trying to find a video game that I would promote to my students to be especially fun and engaging. I loved connecting one of my favorite games which is Minecraft with education.

I thoroughly believe that the content that I have learned in this class will benefit me in the upcoming school year, and when I start teaching my own classroom in the future. Through this class I was exposed to many different modes and technology tools that can help students learn and display their knowledge. I also believe this class will always have me thinking of differentiation and what I could do to help accommodate all future my students' learning needs.