Hi! My name is Ashley Lenar and I am in the process of completing my degree at GVSU with a major in integrated sciences and minor in elementary certification. I have worked with children ages 0-12 for many years now and I have a lot of experience and prior knowledge in this area. I have many interests and hobbies to keep myself occupied outside of school and work. I enjoy traveling, being active outside, going to concerts, swimming, boating, running, being with my friends and family and my dogs!
Before I decided to go into teaching I was focusing on my studies in nursing. I got my CNA license and worked in the health field for about 5 years. This is when I decided that nursing wasn't for me. I knew I had a passion for working with kids so that is why I decided to change my major and I couldn't be more happy with my decision!
During my teacher assisting semester at Coopersville South Elementary I was exposed to a minimal amount of technology usage in elementary classrooms. Although a lot of the assignments and homework are paper based, there is still the use of computers and smart boards. For example; a literacy computer based program that helps students in practicing literacy in all 8 areas is called LEXIA. I feel that this program is an excellent source for students to practice language arts and it incorporates good use of technology. I think it is important to teach students how to use technology appropriately because it is an efficient way to get things done and easy to connect educational and academic practices.
One thing to consider in the future is to look for evidence on whether something like LEXIA improves student outcomes (e.g., did scores trend upward, are students needing less remedial help in the next grade, etc.)
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