Blog Post #2

 As a student, I’ve used Microsoft Word a lot, both in K-12 and at FSU. It’s been useful for writing essays, taking notes, and completing assignments. I like how organized everything is, and I’m familiar with all the tools now. However, I actually prefer using Google Docs most of the time. It’s just easier to access from any device, and I really like the automatic saving and how easy it is to share and collaborate with others. When I’m working on group projects or getting feedback, Google Docs is just more convenient.

The ISTE Standards for Educators are designed to help teachers use technology in meaningful and effective ways. The standard that stands out most to me is the "Learner" standard. I think it’s really important that educators continue to grow and explore new technologies instead of sticking with what they already know. I’ve learned that this standard encourages teachers to engage in professional learning networks and to model lifelong learning. It made me realize how important it is for teachers to keep evolving so they can better support students. One question I still have is how schools can better support teachers in meeting these standards without overwhelming them.

I think the label “digital native” fits most of today’s youth, but not always. Being a digital native means you’ve grown up with technology, so using it feels natural. I definitely notice differences between how I use tech and how some of my teachers do. For example, I’m more comfortable using new apps or online tools, while some teachers stick to older methods or seem hesitant to try new things. Sometimes that slows down the learning process or makes it less engaging. Looking ahead, I think my future students might be even more tech-savvy than I am, so I’ll need to stay updated and open to learning new tools myself to keep up with them.