MIT 512 - Computer Applications in Education

Context and Conditions: MIT 512introduced the applications of technology to the educational field. Several projects were completed in this course under the guidance of Dr. Sue-Jen Chen in the fall of 2007. However, two artifacts are selected to be presented in this portfolio: web site evaluation tool and web instructional module.

The website evaluation tool design and development was a group project completed to fulfill part of the course requirements. Upon completion, we were required to review an instructional website using the tool and write a report on the site. The development of the evaluation tool took two weeks, and one week was allowed for the website evaluation.

Represent Cuba is a web instructional module, designed and developed independently. The purpose of the Represent Cuba project was to develop a unit plan which incorporated technology into the classroom. Though the assignment was individual, small groups were formed in order to discuss, support, and aid one another in improving the quality of the products. The web instructional module was completed within two months.

Scope: The Web Evaluation Tool for Teachers established whether a website was a valid and reliable resource to use in instruction. The Web Site Evaluation Tool design and development involved the tasks of researching existing tools, brainstorming ideas to include in a new tool, and evaluating the tool we created.

The Represent Cuba project involved the design and development of a web module teaching a problem- or an inquiry-based unit for a specific group of students. I began by writing a list of activities to be completed within each lesson with the appropriate resources allotted for. By integrating technology, I also had to consider the type of technology to use, why to use it, and how to use it effectively. Upon completion of my web instructional module, I submitted the final product to a classmate for critique. I have also been very fortunate to share my lesson with other teachers within the Foreign Language Department at my school. I currently use the website with my Spanish II classes.

Role: My role in the web site evaluation tool design and development was project leader. I initiated the processby creating an outline of what I thought should be included within the final product. My two teammates added their input, and we worked together to revise the evaluation tool. My role within the Represent Cuba project was instructional designer and developer.

Reflection: Creating the web site evaluation tool gave me the opportunity to think about what websites I use and recommend within my instruction and what I should include within my own websites to make them reliable. For example, the content of a website should be valid and reliable, have correct spelling and grammar, and be age appropriate. The design of the website should be consistent and overall eye pleasing. The structure of the navigation system should be consistent throughout the website. Finally, the website should be accessible through any search engines. Additionally, I learned the required qualities for a project leader such as effective communication skills.

The Represent Cuba project was a very exciting project because I have been teaching about Cuba for some time, but have never integrated technology into my lessons as I did within this class. This was my first experience in developing an instructional website. From the experience I learned that every element of a good website must be carefully planned with the intended users always in mind.