Ed Tech Program

This is my second time in this program, and both have been full of new and interesting things for me to learn. One year is so fast, and we are done; when I think about what happened, a few important things come to mind.

The Ed Tech program taught me everything I needed about technology and how it can be used in different settings. The program created a safe learning place where people were urged to work together and try new things. This allowed me to explore new ideas and ways to use technology in library programs.

The class covered many different topics, but some were especially hard. For example, it was hard for me to use Nearpod. I created a few lessons, and when I submitted my final work, the code still didn't work. But these problems turned into chances to learn and grow because they pushed me to learn more about the subject and gain new skills.

The most important thing I learned in the class was how important it is to be able to change with the times. Technology is always changing, and as PSS employees, we need to be ready to adjust and welcome it to best meet the needs of our students. Adopting a mindset of constant learning and change has helped me stay up to date on new tools and ideas for education.

The Ed Tech program has significantly enhanced my role as a library Aide. It has equipped me with practical knowledge and skills in technology by improving library services. This program has empowered me to better serve our students and support lifelong learning initiatives.

The Ed Tech program gives me the skills and information I need to do well in a world that is becoming increasingly digital. I'm excited to use these new ideas and skills to encourage creativity and high standards in education.

Instructional Design with Technology (End of Course 4 Reflection)

Technology must be used in educational design in today's digital world to make learning experiences that are both interesting and useful. As a library assistant, one of my main jobs is to find out what learners want and need so they can remember knowledge better and support variety. Adding shared tools to online platforms can help teachers promote engaging and peer-to-peer learning, making the classroom more lively and interesting. It is also important to make sure that all students, including those with disabilities, can fully join in the learning process by adding accessibility features to teaching tools. Educators can keep changing lesson plans to make them more interesting and useful for all of their students by making decisions from data. Lastly, technology makes it possible to make learning experiences that are new, open, and important to the changing digital world.

 I've found a lot of useful tools and websites that help me meet the needs of our students. Some of these are interactive tools for learning, like NearPod and Padlet, that get students involved and help them work together. I've also added feedback and poll tools, such as poll Google forms, to get book suggestions to purchase. Apps like Kahoot and Quizziz have been very helpful for learning new things through fun activities. I love using Canva and Postermywall to create banners, programs, and more. These tools have made the library's services better and helped make it a place where everyone can learn and feel encouraged, even students with different learning needs.

I want to learn more about Artificial Intelligence (AI) and how it can help students learn and be more interested in school. Being a Librarian Aide, it is very important for me to learn more about AI's powers since it is being used more and more in our school. Staying up to date on technology changes and making the best possible educational experiences for our students will require us to learn effective ways to incorporate AI into our learning.

Student Tech Product Reflection

 

The journey through the Ed Tech Student Product has been enlightening and transformative. As I work at the library, engaging with various student products has expanded my toolkit and reshaped how I interact with technology in my work and personal learning environments.

Some of the standout tech products I learned about include Canva and Postermywall for group collaboration, and these tools will bring out your creativity. Interactive whiteboard for interactive learning.  I've learned new ways to improve the services I offer at the library.

Numerous benefits can be gained from using these tools.  They foster a greater sense of connectivity among our students and staff, simplify research processes, and offer innovative ways for delivering instructions and resources remotely.

Regardless, incorporating tech goods for students does present some difficulties.  Concerns about the dependability and safety of cloud-based services, the high learning curve that comes with understanding new technologies, and the cost of keeping subscriptions for premium resources are some of the most important.

We can't deny that these tools can improve library services and give our students more technological power.  The things I've learned will change how I approach and promote technology in our library as I continue my job.

Canva for Libraries

Prioritizing Digital Citizenship in Our Libraries

As I work at the library, I have always understood the significance of promoting digital literacy and responsible online behavior among our students.  However, the Digital Citizenship course I recently undertook has been an eye-opener, shedding light on the critical importance of this aspect in today's digital age. The most important thing I learned in this course is that digital citizenship is using technology safely, effectively, and responsibly to contribute positively to the digital community.

Integrating digital citizenship in the library is vital for empowering students with the knowledge and skills to navigate the online world confidently. One key aspect I plan to implement is regular monitoring of students using computers. Because I don't teach, I will informally discuss online privacy, cyberbullying, fact-checking, and digital footprints when students visit the library. This will be my contribution to helping educate our students on the potential risks and rewards of the digital world, equipping them to make informed decisions and engage in responsible online behavior.

Moreover, I also intend to incorporate digital citizenship themes into our library programming. For instance, organizing book clubs or discussion groups focusing on digital literacy and ethics can encourage meaningful conversations. 

Furthermore, creating a digital citizenship corner in the library featuring resources, infographics, and interactive displays can serve as a constant reminder and resource for patrons to learn about and practice good digital citizenship.

By prioritizing digital citizenship in our library, we are not just facilitating safer online experiences but also nurturing our students as responsible digital citizens who understand the power and responsibility of using digital resources. I am committed to fostering a digital environment that encourages critical thinking, empathy, and the ethical use of technology.

Click the link below for more information and additional resources:

DIGITALLEARN.ORG

DEMCO

WEBJUCTION.ORG

End of course reflection

 

Within five weeks, this course gave me additional fresh tools for learning about Google Apps and their capabilities. I've learned how these apps can assist our library in enhancing our operations, communication, and organization. Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Forms are used in many ways in our library with our Library Coop students to organize materials, track data, and develop surveys and feedback forms. 

I will continue incorporating Google Applications into the library. Google Drive is always helpful for organizing all my library documents for quick access and collaboration with our COOP students. Google Calendar is always my go-to for planning library events, activities, workshops, and sessions.  

Above all, I'd like to learn more about Google Sites. This will allow me to create an engaging, high-quality website, to increase our library's digital presence. I could use Google Sites to build a welcoming and interactive platform for students to access electronic materials, promote library programs, share library news, and schedule to borrow our Makerspace equipment for better accountability.

Benefits and Lessons Learned from Volunteering

Benefits and Lessons Learned from Volunteering

In 2001, a friend and employee of the Quezon City Red Cross invited me to attend a free First Aid and CPR training weekend. The experience was enjoyable, and I learned a lot. Encouraged by my success, my friend suggested I volunteer with the Disaster Management Services. Despite my ongoing studies, I agreed. It disappointed my mother to prioritize volunteering over graduation, but she eventually accepted my decision. 

I devoted considerable effort to my volunteer work, often including additional training sessions. These opportunities made me happy, allowing me to travel and meet new people. I was on call for disasters such as fire (SUNOG) or flooding (BAHA). 

In 2002, following a 15-day train-the-trainer course in Antipolo, Rizal, the Quezon City Red Cross established the Barangay Disaster Action Team, wherein a 'Barangay' is the smallest administrative division in the Philippines. I was honored to be selected as one of the trainers for this important initiative, funded by the Danish Red Cross. 

The training focused on disaster prevention and preparation, which was exciting and memorable. Despite my initial apprehensions about public speaking, I eventually found the confidence to talk in front of  Barangay officials. 

While volunteering was challenging and often left me physically exhausted, I found the experience satisfying and rewarding. I have no regrets about my decision to volunteer and consider myself fortunate to have had the opportunity to contribute to a leading humanitarian organization like the Red Cross.

Philippine National Red Cross

American Red Cross

MY ETEEAP JOURNEY

This year, 2022, marked the achievement of one of my many goals. I finally graduated with a Bachelor's in Library and Information Science from the University of Batangas. This was possible through the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP), executed under Executive Order Number 330 and administered by the Commission on Higher Education in the Philippines. This program allowed me to advance my education by acknowledging and awarding credits for my proficiency and comprehensive knowledge in my field of work. Interacting with the competent professors at the University of Batangas was a remarkable experience.

My experience with the UB-ETEEAP was enlightening and taught me three main things. Firstly, I learned that pursuing a degree such as a Bachelor's at the University of Batangas is possible, even for those unable to attend regular classroom sessions. Secondly, I discovered that experiences from ETEEAP management and hands-on learning are crucial for passing comprehensive examinations. These examinations focused more on the practical application of subjects, reflecting the intellectual maturity essential for ETEEAP. Lastly, I realized that professors could still be effective despite their physical absence. The ETEEAP professors who facilitated my learning didn't have to meet regularly with me; instead, we utilized email and chat to cover a wide range of subjects. Communication between my advisor and me was possible 24/7, meaning our virtual learning sessions faced no restrictions. 

For these reasons, I am genuinely grateful to those who conceptualized this revolutionary program, benefiting many Filipinos who aspire to complete higher education but are limited due to an inability to attend traditional classes. I also extend my gratitude to the professors of the University of Batangas currently involved in ETEEAP for their dedication and commitment to maintaining the program.