Self-Introduction; Assignment 1

Thanks for visiting my blogspot! My name is Suzanne, but I go by Sue. I'm a graduate student, beginning the Special Ed Master's Program in the fall. In 1999, I completed Computer Mastery (CS301) here at San Marcos. I can't say I learned any more than I already knew then. It was a pretty rudimentary class. Later, in the Spring of 2002, I took EDUC 500 (Computer Based Tech in Education). Since then, I've attended staff development training for different applications. Moodle was one of the most outstanding staff development training I've ever taken, however, I wasn't able to use what I learned right away, so much of what I learned, I forgot. I'm happy to hear we'll learn more about using Moodle. The fact that CSU San Marcos has switched to Moodle will help me become very comfortable with it.



I'm fairly comfortable with technology. However, I'm a firm believer that the tool should work for us, and not the other way around. So, if an application is too much trouble, I'm not likely to use it. I pick up new technology better when I'm able to use it immediately after learning it. I didn't THINK I had technology anxiety, until I attended our first class meeting Monday night. I don't have experience with MAC's, and I must admit, the learning curve was pretty steep that first night. I got a bit frustrated, but after having some time at home on my own to get comfortable with the programs and information, I feel pretty confident that I'll be just fine!



I've been teaching for eight years. I've taught first grade, sixth grade Language Arts and Social Studies, fifth grade, and eighth grade History. This past year, I was a Reading Intervention Teacher. I'm one of those teachers who was hired within the past ten years, who is on the "lay-off bubble." I've been laid-off due to a reduction in force four times in the past eight years, and involuntarily transferred once. Luckily, I've been called back every year so far. I have a multiple subject credential, with supplemental credentials in History and Language Arts. So I've been assigned to middle school for a couple of years. I actually enjoyed working in middle schools, which surprised me quite a bit! There is an "up" side to being moved around so much. I began my career thinking I only wanted to work in primary grades, but have discovered I enjoy the older kids just as much! Every grade level has it's own qualities. Exposure to so many different grade levels has given me the confidence to pursue a Special Ed credential. That is something I would not even have considered earlier in my career. Now, I feel capable of the challenges of Special Education.



I'm taking this class as a prerequisite to the Special Education Master's program. I would take it even if it weren't a prerequisite, because I really do need to update my skills. I am hoping to become comfortable enough with newer technology to use it in the classroom. I'm especially anxious to learn about videos, blogging, and using Moodle. I've had just enough exposure to know how helpful and engaging these applications can be to students and teachers alike.