In CEP 810 this week, I studied TPACK, which is a framework describing good teaching as the intersection of content, technology and pedagogy.  According to Dr. Mishra in his 21st Century Learning Conference Keynote, educators should not put technology in the center of their instruction, but rather “repurpose and customize existing technologies for [their] need.”  For my assignment, I had the opportunity to practice repurposing an existing technology for a new use.  Check out the video below to see how a spatula, bowl and dish can become tools to create a cheese plate.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tb5hGBlErzs]
In completing this activity, I was reminded of the importance of flexible thinking.  If I had thought that I could only use a knife and cutting board to slice cheese, I would have not been able to complete the task.  I also was reminded that not all of my attempts to repurpose will be successful, as in the case of using the bowl to apply pressure.  However, by modifying and adjusting tools, better results can be obtained.

This understanding has implications for instruction.  Often times, I will not have access to the perfect tool or technology, because of cost, availability, or tech support.  I must learn and practice the repurposing of existing technology in new and innovative ways.  This will further my growth as an educator and better help my students to explore, create and share their learning.

Resources:

21CLearning. (2012, March 26). Punya Mishra – Keynote Speaker @ 21st Century Learning Conference – Hong Kong 2012. [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9bwXYa91fvQ