Blog Post #2

 Throughout my K-12 education and now at FSU, I have used Microsoft Word regularly for essays and formal assignments, especially when it was required by teachers. While Word helped me learn basic formatting and structure, I strongly prefer Google Docs because it is what I grew up using and what feels most natural to me as a creative writing major. Google Docs allows me to write more freely, revise easily, and access my work from anywhere without worrying about saving or file versions. I also appreciate how simple it is to organize drafts and collaborate when needed, which fits my creative process better than Microsoft Word. 

When reviewing the ISTE Standards for Educators, I did not find one specific standard more meaningful than the others, but I understand the overall goal of using technology intentionally and responsibility in education. The standards emphasize adaptability, professional growth, and using digital tools to enhance learning rather than distract from it. Reading through them reinforced the idea that technology should support creativity, accessibility, and engagement in the classroom. As a future educator, I think the challenge will be finding a balance between using technology effectively and not overwhelming students with unnecessary platforms. 

The term 'digital native' refers to people who grew up surrounded by digital technology and are generally comfortable using it in everyday life. I mostly agree with this label, as my generation tends to adapt quickly to new tools and use technology intuitively. In high school, I noticed a clear difference between students and older teachers who believed strongly in 'old school' methods, such as printing everything and avoiding digital tools whenever possible. While those methods had value, they sometimes made learning feel less flexible, and in the future I hope to blend structure with technology in a way that supports how my naturally learn and create.