Upon the onset of my graduate work through Michigan State, I established a list of goals to work towards throughout the program. These goals reflected my purpose and desire to acquire an advanced degree as well as continue the learning process. My grad school application was designed to describe my personal and professional goals for a Master of Arts in Educational Technology. Although, my past goals are fairly in sync with my current goals, it’s interesting how the goals have molded and adapted along the way.

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First goal I had for this advanced degree was an influx of opportunities outside of the classroom. After a few years working in schools, I have seen the need for being technology literate and the disadvantages that digital illiteracy brings. As I think back, this goal was focused on the sole desire to prevent teacher burnout and create other avenues to share my expertise. This goal has remained the same, to a degree. After learning more about leadership and defining what that means in education technology, I see a clearer definition of this goal as a technology coach for other educators and students. 

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Second goal I had was to teach at the collegiate level. Little did I know, my studies in learning spaces, learning theories, as well as technology integration applies nicely to this goal. Full disclosure, this goal has seemingly slipped my mind! After reading through my grad school application essay and rereading this goal, it ignited a little spark inside. This goal hasn’t changed and is still a feasible goal for myself. 

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third goal I had was centered on my minor in teaching English as a second language (TESOL). The amount of potential technology has in way of communication and various modes of exchanging information are still in full swing. This goal has not been a focus of mine throughout this graduate program. Not to say there still isn’t possibility there. However, when comparing my four competency goals, this would be the goal that has changed the most. 

 

fourth goal that I set for myself was to simply increase knowledge in and around technology integration, specifically in elementary schools. As a personal goal, this is not only a short-term goal but also not necessarily a timely or measurable goal. Instead this was really just my driving force throughout the program. I can confidently say that this goal is still the same but also feel that I have reached this goal with every class I take. 

Overall, my original goals have remained the same for a couple reasons. For one, they haven’t exactly been accomplished yet. I am still working to hold a leadership role as a tech integrator in a school. As I gained more knowledge and insight on leadership, my goals have adapted with that new mindset. It has allowed my goals to remain constant but mold to a new passion and interest of mine. Through opportunities in class and sharing technology knowledge with graduate colleagues, I feel that my final goal has taken shape. After reflecting on my initial goals, I am feeling rejuvenated and ready to take on the final stretch of my master’s degree. Reviewing and redefining my goals has given me the fuel I need to power through.