What have I taken away from this course that will change the way I teach in my classroom?

I have gained so much information from this course.  I have learned about some excellent websites to use such as http://www.rubistar.4teachers.org/, http://www.teachertube.com/ , http://www.edmodo.com/, http://www.surveymonkey.com/, and even this one, http://www.blogger.com/.  I have also learned about various ways to use technology in the classroom like digital storytelling and skype.    At the beginning of this course I felt that my Smart Board was enough for my technology use but now I know there is so much more out there.  I really think this course is going to change me as a teacher.  This course has taught me the importance of engaging my students and ways to do it such as utilizing co-educators, service learning, and community involvement.  As Marzano says, "If students are not engaged, there is little, if any, chance they will learn what is being addressed in class".  Now I feel like I understand what it really means to engage my students.  I appreciate all of your wonderful ideas you have shared.  I am so excited to use them in my classroom this year.  "If you present a topic or assignment with enthusiasm, your students are likely to adopt this same attitude" (Marzano & Pickering, 2010, p. 6)  I think my students and I are in for a fun and engaging year!