Thursday, July 2, 2009

Thing #23!!

I loved the whole process- new ideas, working at your own pace, having colleagues support you, using colleagues as references, being able to go back to certain "things" and review them, reviewing things that I've already done and gotten new ideas as well as being introduced to new things.


What were your favorite discoveries or exercises on this learning journey? I loved the mashups, avatars, and how easy it was/is to set up a blog. I've used WordPress and I thought it wasvery complicated compared to this one
How has this program assisted or affected your lifelong learning goals? I have definietly decided I will use a blog or blogs in my classroom this year. I just have to narrow my ideas down. This process just wants to make me keep seeing and finding what's new and how it can help me be a better teacher.
Were there any take-a-ways or unexpected outcomes from this program that surprised you? Again, how easy it was/is to create a blog using Blogger compared to Word Press. So much easier and quicker.
What could we do differently to improve upon this program’s format or concept?
If we offered another discovery program like this in the future, would you choose to participate?
I say just be a little more clear or up front with certain statements/warnings (ex. video won't load unless you do it at home first and then in the classroom, avatars may not appear b/c ___, ). I would definitely embark on another discovery program like this, especially in the summer since it's self paced even though there is a deadline.
How would you describe your learning experience in ONE WORD or in ONE SENTENCE, so we could use your words to promote 23 Things learning activities? Self paced learning is wonderful and being able to understand and learn how to use the technological tools our students are using will help me be a better teacher who can reach more of my students both at school and at home.
THANKS SO MUCH FOR THIS EXPERIENCE!!!

Thing #22

I think different Nings are definitely another way to collaborate with others. I don't really like the layout, it's overwhelming (too much on the page- it's a me thing). Educationally, students could create Nings based on certain school related topics- book clubs, science experiments, homework helpers...

Thing #21

This is a Photstory video I made awhile ago. I am so glad that I only have to show my students once and then provide support b/c what they produce is so much better than mine.



Thing #20

I have used TeacherTube in the classroom and the kids love it b/c they equate it with YouTube. This video on the water cycle is hilarious, but I love finding things like this to use. he kids love it and what's wrong with laughing while you're learning? That makes the ideas stick with the kids more b/c they can't stop talking about it or wanting to share it with others.

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

Thing # 19

After exploring the Web 2.0 Awards site I will have to say... I like how it's organized and you have the different places which you may or may not agree with. The listings can be used as mini tutorials. You can also incorporate the lists into writing classificatory pieces. Students can visit all awarded sites for a specific topic. While they're exploring, they can complete a pros/cons t- chart which they will then use to present what's good/or not about using these sites or to compare why one site was awarded 1st place and not 2nd. Either way, they still explored and learned how to use the assigned topic.