JEFF PIERCE

One specific reason I chose the MAET program was to learn how use technology to transform my lessons and to find ways to expand my ideas beyond my own classroom. An example I cited in my application was the Tai Tam Treasure Hunt (pictured left), an orienteering and geocaching project of an introduction to geography unit. It took me three years to develop that project and to get my colleagues on board. How could I develop more innovative projects like that and make the changes happen more quickly?

This goal has been fulfilled with my work on Genius Hour. This project utilizes key learnings from the MAET: it is similar in philosophy to the Networked Learning Project, in which master’s students have to learn anything they are passionate about without any expert help. And this project has grown at a rapid rate! It started in my classroom in January 2014 and now, just over a year later, it has expanded to directly involve 15 other teachers in my school.

My other goal was expressly undefined, represented by the uncharted territory in the map to the right. Would this degree encourage me to stay in the classroom, move into administration, or perhaps pursue a support role like a technology specialist?

I have to say that not only do I not have any answers to this goal, I feel that my options have expanded. After taking electives in serious games and design, I have learned the necessary game design skills to create a product that has a meaningful impact on learning. Do I want to apply these skills to my work as a classroom teacher or support specialist? Or do I want to take a risk and try to turn some of my ideas into a viable entrepreneurial career?

While my career paths seem broader, I’m not worried. I know that I have a variety of skills that will help me tackle whatever path I find myself on.