Saturday, June 20, 2026

 Day 3 Reflection

I learned a lot from Dr. Matilda N. Rivera as our professor. She is a "jack-of-all-trades", especially in the technology field. Her "tech-savviness" is very "smooth" as she teaches and we learn. I felt a bit overwhelmed because for me, I am a slow but eager learner. I'm very thankful for your patience, Dr. Rivera and for my group colleagues, Grace, Jane, and Emi!

I enjoyed all the presentations - learning about the other islands and countries, self-care, AI, and, of course, cultural dance. Just the topics themselves were interesting. Each group presentation was captivating. I appreciate all the information. I love how each group created the slides and then put them all together to show us their magnificent blog presentation.

Congratulations to all! I am very happy that we are all classmates, especially with Dr. Matilda N. Rivera as one of the best professors ever! I still have a lot to learn as I continue to navigate into technology through literary. Until next time when we meet again, take care, have a wonderful summer, and much love and blessings for all of us!

Best regards,

Mae M.C. Mendiola

Thursday, June 18, 2026

Day 3 Blog

 

Today was an engaging and informative day as each group shared their final presentations. The first group presented about our island and the outer islands of Micronesia. Their presentation helped us gain a deeper understanding of the cultures, traditions, and educational systems of places such as Chuuk, Palau, Yap, Hawaii, the Philippines, and Japan. It was interesting to learn about the similarities and differences among these islands and how geography, history, and culture shape the lives of the people who live there. The presenters were well-prepared and provided valuable information that broadened our perspectives.

Our group presented on Cultural Dances in the Classroom. We explored how traditional dances can be integrated into instruction to promote cultural awareness, student engagement, physical activity, and appreciation for diversity. We highlighted dances such as the Tinikling and Singkil and discussed how cultural performances can be connected to classroom learning and community celebrations. One of the most enjoyable parts of our presentation was the interactive activity at the end, where participants were invited to engage with the content and share their own experiences. The interaction created a positive learning environment and demonstrated how cultural activities can bring students together while making learning meaningful and memorable.

The third group presented on Wellness and Self-Care, an important topic for educators and students alike. They emphasized the importance of maintaining physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being. Their presentation reminded us that self-care is not a luxury but a necessity, especially in a profession that requires so much dedication and energy. They shared practical strategies for managing stress, maintaining balance, and creating healthy habits that support overall wellness.

The final group presented on a variety of educational technology tools and platforms, including artificial intelligence, IXL, and other digital resources that can support teaching and learning. Their presentation showcased how technology can enhance instruction, personalize learning experiences, and provide valuable data to inform teaching decisions. They also discussed the importance of using these tools responsibly and ethically. As technology continues to evolve, it is essential for educators to stay informed and open to learning new ways to engage students and improve educational outcomes.

Overall, I learned a great deal from all of the presentations. Each group contributed unique ideas and perspectives that expanded my understanding of culture, wellness, and educational technology. The presentations demonstrated the creativity, collaboration, and dedication of all participants. I leave this experience with new knowledge, practical resources, and a renewed appreciation for lifelong learning and professional growth.

Quote:

"The most meaningful learning happens when we share our knowledge, honor our cultures, care for our well-being, and embrace innovation with purpose."

I am attaching a picture of my students using technology for the first time with Google Earth.



Reflection 3 Day


I want to express my gratitude for the learning experience regarding the integration of technology and literacy. Through these sessions, I have learned that educational technology is a vital tool that works in tandem with core subjects, providing a voice to students who may otherwise remain silent. I discovered that while building a blog requires significant organization—much like a PowerPoint or Canva project—it is a "doable" and sophisticated way to make learning more dynamic. Moving forward, I plan to implement a blog in my counseling program at Untalan Middle School to provide a safe, relevant space for students to express their "whole selves" and report issues. 

I specifically intend to have students involved in the discipline process use the blog to critically reflect on and update their progress regarding Office Discipline Referral (ODR) infractions. 

By sharing these blog-building skills with my colleagues and continuing to "update my own software" regarding AI and digital intelligence, I am committed to ensuring that technology is used meaningfully to help my students reach their full potential.


Farewell 👋🏽

It’s our last day! Thank you all for being such excellent classmates. I had taken a class with Dr. Rivera before on blogging, but this was a great refresher after so many years. It reminded me that I should start using blogging in my classroom, especially to help build a positive classroom culture.

I really enjoyed reading your blogs and watching your presentations. I gained new insights from your topics and learned a lot along the way. It was also interesting to see the diversity of cultures and
personalities in our sessions. We all approached our blogs in different ways, which kept things engaging.

Wishing everyone a wonderful summer! Take time to recharge before the new school year, and maybe don’t take too many summer academy classes 😄

- Cheysser

Farewell Everyone!

I thoroughly enjoyed taking this training session on navigating educational technology. Although I’m fairly familiar with using technology in the classroom and I’m comfortable implementing its use in my instruction, this session provided me with another way to productively utilize this learning tool. 


It was also nice to see how every group created their blogs. It just showcased how versatile this type of educational technology can be and how it can give students the freedom to be as creative and innovative as they’d like to be. I also appreciated all the constructive criticism my team and I received on our blogs. Those comments truly helped me to reflect on what worked and what I could improve on as I continue to create future blog posts.


I’m looking forward to applying what I learned here to my classroom instruction as well as sharing my knowledge with my colleagues at my school. 

June 19, 2026 Day3: Farewell 

Yu’os Bendisi yan Gloria Ha’åni:  


Learning and navigating technology continues to be my greatest challenge. For three days, I’ve been surrounded by outstanding teachers. They continue to provide unlimited guidance and knowledge in technological support. For example, creating Blogs with visuals and resources. Today's group presentations showcase our Blogs. “Cultures in the GDOE Classroom” presentation took the class on a journey to our neighboring islands. Their data brought valuable information and awareness to use in my classroom. The next presenters focused on “Wellness & Self-Care Journey as Elementary Teachers”. Our Santa Barbara Catholic School Sisters of Mercy brought into light the importance of self-care and how they maintain balance in health as educators. 


Yu’os ma’ase Dr. Rivera for being patient and understanding as I’m basic in technology. 🙏🏼


Strangers intent to know

T'was days ago we met as strangers in a room

Take the days to learn those skills we need

Intent to know the tech we’ll use quite soon

 

Bond web to brain in June like bride to groom

Grow the words and sight from EdTech seed

T'was days ago we met as strangers in a room

 

In groups we spread the light to fight the gloom

Of August days that call upon our need

Intent to know the tech we’ll use quite soon

 

Public, private set to shoot the moon

Embrace the future ghost and then be freed

T'was days ago we met as strangers in a room

 

Teaching, counsel, owed to children soon

But also owed to us the chance, we flee

Intent to know the tech we’ll use quite soon

 

T'was joy to meet these peeps in midday June

Mercy Sisters, Untalan and elementary feed

T'was days ago we met as strangers in a room

Intent to know the tech we’ll use quite soon


- Joey, have a great summer everyone!

 Day 3 Reflection I learned a lot from Dr. Matilda N. Rivera as our professor. She is a "jack-of-all-trades", especially in the te...