When I applied to the Master of Arts in Educational Technology (MAET) program, I had several goals in mind. First, I wanted to learn how to integrate technology in ways that foster engagement, creativity, and meaningful learning. Second, I hoped to strengthen my ability to design learning experiences that thoughtfully combine pedagogy and technology. Finally, I wanted the opportunity to collaborate with and learn from educators with diverse backgrounds and experiences. Most of all, I saw the program as an opportunity to continue growing as a learner and educator.
Throughout the program, I have made meaningful progress toward each of these goals. The coursework consistently challenged me to think differently about learning, technology, and instructional design. I explored many things such as learning theory, innovative technologies, computational thinking, and creativity in computing in ways that directly influenced my classroom practice. Rather than viewing technology as a collection of tools or programs, I started to shift my understanding and see it as one component of creating meaningful learning experiences. I also had the opportunity to immediately apply many of the ideas from the program in my own classroom, allowing me to actively reflect on their impact and refine my practice.
One of the most valuable aspects of the MAET program has been learning alongside other educators. I entered the program hoping to collaborate with people in both similar and completely different situations than my own, and that goal was certainly met. Through discussions, projects, and shared experiences, I was exposed to new perspectives that challenged my thinking and expanded my understanding of teaching and learning. The program also pushed me to become a stronger student. Balancing graduate coursework while teaching full-time was not always easy, but it reminded me how much I enjoy being challenged and learning new things. One of my favorite parts of the experience was being open about that journey with my students. I had the opportunity to share my work, talk about the challenges I was facing, and model what it looks like to pursue a difficult goal. In many ways, I was learning alongside them, and that made the experience even more impactful.
While my goals for the MAET program have remained largely the same, my understanding of them has evolved. I entered the program hoping to learn how to support educators through meaningful technology integration. I still hold that goal today, but I now recognize that technology is not the destination. Meaningful learning is. The program helped me understand that technology is most effective when it supports creativity, curiosity, collaboration, and authentic learning experiences.
Although my program goals have not significantly changed, my vision for the future has. I still hope to support educators through curriculum design, instructional leadership, and technology integration, but I have also developed a deeper appreciation for continued learning. The MAET program has inspired me to consider additional educational opportunities and ways to support future educators entering the profession. Rather than changing my goals, this program helped clarify them and broaden my understanding of where they may lead.
Alexis Flanders 