The Lasso of Learning: Chronicles of a School-Based OT

I have been hearing and seeing a lot about educators having ePortfolios, and I wondered what the point of it all was. Well, fast-forward: Here I am taking a course for my doctorate program, and one of our modules is talking about this very same thing—go figure! So now, I ironically have no choice but to learn about this world of technology and use a digital platform to add to my curriculum designs and lesson plans. But here’s the thing- I am far from tech savvy, and this is all new to me. I have dabbled in technology, but using so many “uncommon” ones that are not part of Google platforms and Canva has me shaking in my boots. Even Canva is fairly new to me and has so many different tools that I have yet to master. But I digress, because since I have to learn it, I think that it’s a great idea for you all to learn it with me. Laugh at my pain, please, and bear with me as I try to navigate new learning tools into my everyday practice, and journal it through my ePortfolio.

As I continue developing my ePortfolio and integrating multiple digital platforms into my teaching, I have found the process both frustrating and rewarding. While I initially felt uncertain about using many of these tools, each experience has boosted my confidence and understanding of how technology can enhance OT education. The learning curve has required patience, experimentation, and a lot of reflection, but I can now see how these platforms can enrich both my teaching practices and my students’ clinical learning experiences. I am learning more creative ways to teach, and  

Among all the tools explored, Google applications have been the most accessible and practical. Google Docs, Slides, Meet, and Forms are flexible, and widely used by both instructors and students, making collaboration and communication seamless (Andrew, 2019). Because most of my students are already familiar with Google platforms, there is less time spent on technical explanations and more focus on the content itself. The only area that continues to challenge me is Google Sheets, particularly in mastering the formulas and functions necessary for data organization and analysis. However, I recognize its value for tracking clinical data, student progress, and intervention outcomes, so I plan to continue practicing and exploring tutorials to strengthen this skill. 

Other platforms, such as iFunFace, EdPuzzle, and Pearltrees, have presented steeper learning curves. These tools require trial and error to understand their features and best applications for instruction. iFunFace offers creative possibilities for instruction and storytelling but demands time to master its animation settings. Pearltrees is a great resource for gathering research materials, though it takes effort to organize links and collections effectively. EdPuzzle has been the most difficult for me to use so far. I believe this challenge comes from limited practice and unfamiliarity with its interactive video functions. Still, I see potential in using EdPuzzle for self-paced learning and clinical reflections once I become more comfortable with it. 

Overall, this learning process has reminded me that technology integration is a continual journey of discovery. Each new tool offers opportunities to engage students, promote critical thinking, and support diverse learning styles. As I grow more confident in my ability to use these platforms, I am beginning to view them less as obstacles, and more as creative extensions of my teaching practice. This entire process has forced me to think outside of the box for traditional methods of teaching and learning, and I am enjoying this process as this school year progresses.