My Understanding of TPACK

While the idea of TPACK totally made sense as I was learning about it, it was honestly nothing I had ever considered together before. Of course having pedagogical knowledge is important when teaching so that one might be able to do so effectively. I have already discussed in detail this semester the importance of content knowledge in order to be a successful teacher, for how can one teach what one does not already know? Also, I am beginning to see the importance of technological knowledge and the benefits this can also have in a classroom and for learners. BUT, I had never really put these three areas of knowledge together before. Of course it makes sense, but I suppose I am just that individual who needs a little more nudging to see what is right in front of them. The GOOD teachers understand what they are teaching. The BETTER teachers understand what they are teaching along with how to teach it most effectively. The BEST teachers apply their knowledge of technology and classroom tools to what they know about content and teaching in order to reach their students and prepare them for the changing world. I think I am finally starting to see why this class is so vital to my teaching career: technology is vital for students learning career and therefore it is vital for me as a teacher. Whether it is teaching math and using calculators, science and exploring the night sky, or reading where we are comparing a book to a movie, I need to know what tools are available through technology and combine that knowledge with my knowledge about the subject and how to teach that subject.