Blog Post #1 - Introductions

For this post, I will be telling you all about myself! My name is Emily Walker, and I am currently enrolled as a Junior at Indiana University studying elementary education with a focus on computers in education and middle grades math.

I was born and raised in Sullivan, Indiana. I hope to graduate and find a job in a school near my hometown. I have not yet decided on my ideal grade to teach, but I know that I want the content area to include mathematics.

I am a part of the Indiana University School of Education CEL program (Computer Education License). I joined CEL because I not only find technology and how it fits into the classroom fascinating, but also, I recognize that this is a topic and skill that continues to rise in importance at this day and age. Being knowledgeable in both what tools are available as well as how to use them to their greatest potential will better the learning experiences for my students as well as myself. I find the CEL program to be very eye-opening in regards to the immense opportunities available in the educational world. I have learned a great amount of tools and lessons on technology in the classroom, and I am excited to continue this learning and to share my knowledge with others.

To me, the field of education technology is a vital component of the learning curriculum. Technology is something that will continue to grow and evolve each and every day. It is important that we take advantage of the opportunities it provides and stay up to date on the content. I am hoping to learn how to best use technology to enhance learning in the classroom through taking courses in the CEL program. Something that I constantly refer back to when incorporating technology into my lesson plans are the main E's learned in the first course of this program (W200): Does it enhance the learning? keep the students engaged? produce effective results? and act efficiently?

To wrap up this first post, I would like to share a little about my life outside of the CEL program. I work as a gymnastics coach at Bloomington United Gymnastics and Soccer and a front desk assistant at St. Paul Catholic Center. I would describe myself as organized, motivated, creative, and enthusiastic. A couple of my hobbies include cycling, travelling, and spending time with my friends/family. I am highly involved with my church group, Hoosier Catholics, and I enjoy attending Bible studies and mission trips when I can.