Running Head: FINAL REFLECTION

Final Reflection
Ashley Carter
University of St. Mary

FINAL REFLECTION

The web tools I have decided to use in my classroom are Evernote (Skitch) and
for our project I chose to implement Google Docs into my routine. I will use Skitch while
close reading excerpts with my students and Google Docs for collaboration. Both are
tools that they have used before and are familiar with. Both are tools that they enjoy
using while at school.
My next step with my area of focus statement and my new implantation is to find
ways to use these programs other than research and an implementation project. I would
like to eventually go paperless and use Google Docs for most group work. Skitch is great
because the kids can make notes on text without using any paper at all.
I am using my research to better meet the needs of my students in the form of reteaching. Their MAZE reading comprehension scores are sub par. I researched, and
found methods that I believe will improve their skills. My kids need a web tool for
collaboration, so I researched, took this class, and learned about Google Docs. All of
these new tools help reach my students and teach to their needs.
My research relates to the USM framework of Knowledge in Action because I
found a problem, I assessed it and now I am doing something about it (2011). I noticed
the writing issue in my classroom. I used my observations to conclude that my students
do well with web tools. With this information, I found a method for teaching writing that
should cater to my specific learners. Now, I will implement my research and find out if
using Skitch for close reading improves scores. . When I finish, I will reflect on the
process and decide what went well and what I could improve in the future (2011).
The NBPTS five core propositions states, Teachers are committed to students

FINAL REFLECTION

and their learning (2013). My area of focus is committed to students and their learning
because I am trying to find a new way to teach them how to write. I recognized the gap in
our curriculum, and I care enough to fix the problem. The first literacy standard says
readinglanguage arts teachers draw on their relationships with students as well as their
knowledge of literacy and child development to acquire knowledge of their students as
intellectual, social, emotional, cultural, and language learners (2013). I have found
research supporting close reading and Skitch. Combined with my knowledge of writing
and teaching practices, I have concluded that these web tools would be an adequate
vessel to teach reading and writing comprehension and to collaborate with others using
Google Docs.
My action research lends itself to the University of St. Mary Graduate Program
Outcome (GPOs) number 8 promoting student learning, utilizing assessment,
technologies and best instructional practice (2011). I believe my area of focus fulfills
this requirement because I am utilizing web tools that I believe will promote student
learning.

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References
Graduate conceptual framework. (2011). Manuscript submitted for publication,
University of St. Mary.
Nbpts mathematics standards . (2013). Retrieved from
http://www.nbpts.org/sites/default/files/documents/certificates/NBStandards/nbpts- certificate-ea-math-standards_10.01.13.pdf