Thing 23--You Made IT/ NO, I made it!!

I made it, what a wonderful feeling. The only problem, is that I just put everything off until the end of time to complete the class and I felt rushed. As my students might say, my bad.... :)

Anyway, what a great opportunity for me as an educator. I learned many new things that I will use, and some that I just don't see me putting into my life either personally or educationally. There is so much more out in Web 2.0 that we did not even touch, but I am so glad that I had the opportunity to be part of this class.

Ya know, many people take a class and forget about using what they learn. Well, I took many notes and plan on referring to them frequently. Will I use "things" in my class, yes, I will.

The last video that we watched, I really agree with. We have so many opportunities for educating student with technology, but we put that aside and don't use it. How do kids communicate these days? Texting, e-mailing, blogging, facebooking, and the list goes on and on. I agree that we need to stick with basics in the classroom, but putting technology into the classroom is a necessity that districts really need to look back at.

I hope that I can really use some of these "things" without getting any backlash or comments from administration for allowing my students use technology to learn.

Loved the class content, love the learning style, love on-line learning. Thanks for putting this class together, it has been very helpful.

Thing 22--Online Video

I love YouTube for the classroom. It is blocked in our district, but we can have it opened up if we request it. I do use it in my class and students love it. Obviously there are some videos that are not school appropriate, so using TeacherTube and SchoolTube is very helpful. Another great site is GodTube, I know we can't really discuss church in school, but there have been some good videos that are usable in school also.

YouTube? Use it, I love it.

Thing 21--Your Heart will be a Twitter

Here comes my honesty again, I really don't care for "twitter". First off, it sounds like dealing with a bird, "what are you doing?" "Oh, I am tweeting". It just does not appeal to me. Now, that was all just what I thought before I investigated the Twitter Search. After going through the twitter search, I feel the same way. I looked up my city, Byron Center. Great, I am glad that this person is at this place in Byron Center, and I am glad that this person is working out in Byron Center, but I really don't care.

Now, how would I use it? Well, I don't have plans to use it. I really don't care to tell everyone what I am doing, nor do I care to let everyone know where I am. It really does nothing for me at all. To go to the flip side of the coin, I don't care that Sue is at McDonalds, and Steve is at the library. If they have something to tell me or want me to know, they can call me.

I know, I know, I really sound like a stuff shirt here, but "Tweeting" is not for me. So, with that said, I guess that I won't be using it in my professional life, in my classroom, or even in my personal life. Oh well, so they say, not everything is for everybody.

Thing 20--Bookmarking with del.icio.us

Now that I have looked at del.icio.us, I think this is wonderful. I love the ease and simplicity of being able to organize and keep my websites easy to find and access, as well as being able to look at other tagged sites.

My del.icio.us user name is teacher9363@yahoo.com, so feel free to see what I have tagged so far. I have put a few of them into "personal" status, so sorry you can't check them out. Anyway, I see this as a VERY helpful tool for me to put sites out there for students to look at, or utilize for a project or presentation. As for fellow teachers, this will make it so easy to share with them. I can't tell you how many times that I have received an e-mail with a great website, just to only loose it because I did not save it. Now, we as educators, can share our sites very easily with others through del.icio.us.

Productivity? Do I think this will help? You bet. This will make looking up websites so much easier, either mine, or anyone else that is tagged according to what I am looking for. For example, I just did a search for "adding fractions" and came up with 452 tagged sites, this is incredible...

I see myself using this at home as well as in the classroom, both with students and fellow teachers. Everyone needs to know about Del.icio.us, and I will do my best to spread the news withing my district.

Thing 19--Introdution to Social Bookmarking

OK, this was very exciting. As soon as I saw the video, I could not go any farther to register and sign up for this feature. I think this will be a GREAT way to organize digital resources because there have been so many times that I wanted to share a website with others and needed to copy it, paste it, and e-mail it to them. Did I forget to do it sometimes? You bet. There are other times when I received things from others and forgot to keep it and had to ask all over again.

Tagging these and putting them into one easy to use site will make this a wonderfully easy opportunity to share and not loose great sites. This is a wonderful advantage for all educators. The only disadvantage that I see of this, and maybe I am wrong for now, is that you have to have a yahoo account to set this up. Maybe I am wrong, hopefully I am, because this would make it not as appealing to others. Logging into another account just to pull up the site, may discourage others.

Important thoughts about tagging: Making sure this is truly an important site. Make sure it is what is needed and necessary. It is critical to make sure the site really is and does what we want it to do before sharing with others.

Last thoughts!! Can't wait to try this....

Thing 18--Building Your Personal Learning Network

Few thoughts on Personal Learning Network. I don't think it is for me, yet!. It looks interesting, but I am not sure I am ready for it. Two reasons, comments. One, I am not one that likes to go into a PLN and check out what is going on, what is being said, or what is happening. It just is not my personality or style of learning/interacting that I enjoy. Therefore, reason two, I am not sure that I could be enthusiastic about introducing my students to something like this. I feel that if I can't take ownership of something like this, then I can't teach it well.

After watching Elluminate Live!-Classroom 2.0, and watching how the interacting goes, again, that is just not something that I can get interested in. Social networking, if you don't mind me talking specifically about Facebook, is interesting--at least for a while. I got into FB for a while, built up hundreds of "friends", but then got burned out rather quickly. Now I go to FB about once a week, try to remember to tell people happy birthday, look at upcoming events and maybe chat with a couple friends if they are online. I never think about going into FB and looking up this person or that person, just to check on them.

So, with the PLN, I think that if I tried it, it would end up just like FB. I would maybe start into it quickly, but then give up just as fast. Sorry, this one is just not for me, AT THIS TIME!

Thing 17--More Web 2.0 Winners

Well, web winners can be very interesting. (http://www.seomoz.org/web2.0#cat_108) I selected the Food section, then choose the winner, "Im Cooked", this was kind of a bad choice because I spent way to much time looking at recipes that were easy to do and very good looking. This file has each site ranked with the following criteria: (this criteria came from the site related to "Im Cooked")
Usability 5/5
Usefulness 4/5
Social Aspects 4/5
UI & Design 4/5
Content Quality 5/5

I agree with the criteria. It was very easy to use and the content that was listed was very good. (Well, it seemed good, I did not try the recipes listed, yet) The design of the site was fairly easy to follow and I feel that it was useful in creating new ideas for cooking.

This site was friendly and easy to use. However, I believe this is not a site that is going to be used in the classroom. I did look around at other sites and there are some that might be good candidates for classroom work.

Part of my science curriculum, is to teach about solar system. I found one of the Web 2.0 winners called "Galaxiki",(http://www.galaxiki.org/) a fictional galaxy that anyone can edit. It give people the opportunity to "be creative and share your imagination".

This sites allows students to:
Explore the galaxy
Name and edit stars, planets and moons
Build your own solar system
Share

This could be a great site for students to have fun and use their creativity while following the curriculum.

I am sure there are many other options, however, it will take a little more time than I have available. I guess this will just become a work project for students in the near future.

By the way, I guess that I am not that savy when it comes to locations in North America. I took the "Travel IQ" test and finally reached level 7 out of 9, but that was after the 5th try. I guess I better practice more. Maybe you should visit http://www.travelpod.com/traveler-iq/game1. Oh, by the way, good luck!! :)

Thing 16--Teach Digital

WOW, I feel like I have said this before. I know that we need to teach the future, but never realized how much we were not allowing the students to take the opportunity to learn technology.

To me, the first and third videos really said a lot about the fact that we are not allowing the students to grow in the technology age. One comment from "Digital Students at Analog Schools" was that 99% of teachers (teach) the old fashion way. Meaning, we teach the same things that we have taught for years. We need to step out of the box and teach to the students what the future holds. Another thought from the same video clip, was that "lectures limit my learning" and that students need more hands on.

With Sir Ken Robinson, he said that "All kids have tremendous talent and we squander them". This is true, we are not giving the students the opportunity to learn and grow. He gave an example about the parent whom thought their child had ADHD. After the observations and the doctor and mother left the room (with the radio on) the child started dancing. Here is what we do wrong, we think they have a problem sitting still, what we don't see is the possibilities that the student has. This is so true with teaching now days. We don't let the students express their selves in the way that they can.

The students in "No Future Left Behind" summed it up by saying we want no rows and no clocks. Give us the chance to create and share what I have learned. "I know how to memorize, teach me how to think". This is so true, are we really teaching students to think? or are we just having them memorize what we teach so they can "pass the test" and forget it the next day. Students are bored, they need our help, guidance, experience. They want us to step out of the box, the book, the testing and let them express their self. I liked the end where students were saying, "Let me build it. Sing it. Record it. Act it out. Dance it. Analyze it. Sing it. Let me show you what I can really do." As educators, we don't always do this and we need to.

So, what did I really get out of all of these videos? Well, I need to revisit my teaching style. No longer do I want students to just memorize it, but we want them to understand how to "do" it. I want them to express their self. I want them to feel like they have a part in their education, not just have to sit and "listen" to another boring lecture.

Thing 15--How to use Podcasts in School

Before now, I had not thought about podcasts being an educational tool. After listening to the short video, I see that there are many options for students to use as a valuable resource. I like what it says in the video, have "THEM" find the podcast that gets the information they need to answer or research necessary to complete a project.

As for using this in the building, do I think I will get "pushback"? Not really. I am always willing to try new things in the classroom, especially with technology. This will be another great way for me to have students learn through technology. The challenge will be actually putting it to use in the classroom.

Where to go for podcasts? Well, check out http://podcastalley.com for a great resource. Also try, http://epnweb.org/ for additional resources.

Thing 14--Learn About Podcasting

I had never, believe it or not, experienced podcast. Really, I did not know what it was all about, but feel a little better about them now.

After listening to and looking at some different podcasts, I am sure that I can try to help students to find more information/a different way, to learn about a specific topic. The challenge that I have, is finding the "right" podcast and where they are. After looking at Itunes, I don't see "tons" of things to use, however maybe I have just not explored it very much. Oh well, more to learn and study.

What have I seen that would be interesting, well, believing it or not, I enjoyed listening to a few of Mike Flanagan's podcasts. Even though they are a little corny at the beginning, they are great information. (http://www.michigan.gov/mde/0,1607,7-140-37818_45256---,00.html) This will be used more by me then by the students, but this information will be helpful to explain information to students when it comes to how the education of Michigan is controlled.

I also listened to mathgrad.com. However, for my class of 5th grades, this is way over their head and to much to try to figure out. Also, with something like mathgrade.com it is more important to listen even more closely because there are no visuals to help you understand the problem. (http://www.mathgrad.com/shownotes.html)

I listened to Radio WillowWeb, specifically, "Fifth graders give information about the office of the President of the United States". This was very interesting and a great opportunity to hear a students point of view and information. This was very interesting to learn even more about the presidential responsibilities, duties, and finally the interesting facts that they included in the podcats. (http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/radio-willowweb/id73800253) This site has many different podcasts that students could listen to to increase their knowledge.

Thing 13--Sharing Your Vision

Very cool stuff!! Well, that is the unprofessional response. Embedding a document into the blog really threw me for a loop, but with a little searching from google search, I was able to figure out how to do it... YEA Google!!

This will be very helpful for me with our business. We run an entertainment video and take inflatables and other items into the public. When we have a larger event, we have to train people how to use the equipment. Having this listed on the blog, utilizing Zoho show, makes it easy for me to provide training information to the customer.

Could this be used in the classroom. Sure, by putting lessons on the blog and embedding the PowerPoint that I use in class, will make it easier for students to review the PowerPoint while doing the homework/assignment.

Thing 12--Productivity Anywhere you have a Browser

Very cool... I tried out 30 boxes. We (our family) has been looking for a way to organize our calenders and remind each other of upcoming events. This works, at least I think so. I need to put it to the real test.

First I logged in and created my account. Next, I think that I have to have each person create their own account, then put them on my buddy list.. this sounds like a real pain, but I think that it will do the trick. I really liked the ease of entering events for any day. I also liked the text capabilities that is has. I tested it a few times and it worked, imagine that!! :)

Anyway, what did not work, was being able to text to others, yet. I am not sure, but I think that I need to have them set up their account, then it will work... Time will tell.

As for using this in my classroom, not sure that 30 boxes will work. I plan on experimenting with the other productivity sites to see what might work for the classroom.

Any suggestions?? Anyone else try them? Let me know.
Have a lovely LATE evening.

PS, here are the sites to work with:
bubbl.us brainstorm online with this free, concept mapping tool
Zoho Show create, edit and share your presentations online
Slide create, edit and share your presentations anywhere
Remember the Milk create task list, share it, get reminders
30 Boxes online calendar
LibraryThing personal online bookshelf
Diigo create a "trail"of annotated web pages on any subject, and share them with others.
Knowtes create a deck of virtual flashcards for study

Thing 11--Online Productivity Applications

Google Docs.. Could it replace MS Office someday?? I don't think so. There are always going to be those people out there who fell that they have documents that they want NOBODY to see, so if they put it onto the Internet, someone can see them. They won't like that or agree with that. They will still want MS Office to keep their files personal.

I believe that based on the information from above, Microsoft will not need to be nervous, they will always have a portion of the market, it may not be as big in the future, but they will be just fine with their software.

Student access will be greatly increased with Google Docs. When I look at the school usage, they could do work in the classroom on laptops or the classroom computer, save it, then work on it in the computer lab. If they don't finish, they have the access to work on them at home, library, or or even a friends house, anywhere they can get access to the Internet.

Google docs has great potential, it is just getting to understand the abilities much better before people will be more comfortable with using it in the future.

I have tried Google Docs already and feel it is a little harder than an e-mail, but if I work on it, I can get better at using this tool.

Thing 10--Create your own Wiki

WOW!! this was fun and easy to do.... I like this and know that I can use this in the classroom.
I started my "front page" with the beginning of the year things. I utilized the "assignments" page and listed their first assignments. Can I use this??? YOU BET!!! Can't wait to put it into practice. Now all I have to do is hope the students have access to computers at home.

Starting a page, easy.
Editing a page, easier.
Viewing the page, easy.
Great tool, this can be used!!!!

Thing 9--Wiki Wiki Wiki

Wiki Wiki, everywhere a Wiki! Well, that it the possible thought about wikis. I have heard about them before, but never investigated their possibilities.

I guess one challenge that I have, is finding them. Where do you go to find a wiki to look at? Well, after using google search, I was able to find the following pieces of information I found of a couple of wiki sites.

Wikis seem to be a great way for collaboration for the students, as well many other options. From "A Wiki Guide For Teachers", they say that wikis are great in the classroom for e-portfolio's, online journals, debate projects, collaborative projects, share resources and class notes, and distribute student materials.

After looking at the kentisdcommoncore.pbworks wiki, I see that this has had a LOT of work with a LOT of people working on this. It was well organized, with many pop up windows that gave even more information than you would expect.

Could I see myself using Wikis in the classroom? You bet. Like mentioned earlier from the wiki guide, I see students working collaboratively with each other on many different topics/ideas. They can work on projects, vocabulary skills, journals and I am sure MANY other options. Using Wikis should happen in class this year for me and my class.

Thing 8--Locating Feeds that Interest You

OK, ok, so I was a little quick on not being positive about RSS. After looking at Thing 8, I have discovered a few more options that might be useful to me. After checking out "Edublog", I have already found some very helpful sites that will make my usage of technology better.

It really is amazing what is being "blogged" about on the web, so adding a few more RSS to my Google Reader was easy to do.

Still, I am not sure how I will put this into the classroom, but now my thoughts are, "there is a possibility of using this for my classroom." Not sure how yet, but I will work on figuring this out for the use of the students.

Thing 7--Learning about RSS

RSS is an awesome feature for those whom are regular for reading the news on-line. For me, it would not be something that I regularly use, due to my lack of time to sit down and read from the computer/on-line. Is it a wonderful feature? You bet, this is fantastic for those people whom like to read about certain local or foreign news, or watching stocks or specific items. I would have to really work hard at using this in a personal way.

Using this in the classroom could be beneficial for tracking current events, watching blogs, or if doing an economic unit watching stocks. This, of course, would be beneficial if I had computers available to students anytime every day so they can research or just check in on current events. Do I think that I will be able to put this into place in my room? As much as I hate to say this, no, I don't think I will use this feature in my classroom.

RSS, a great feature, but probably not practical for me to use. :(

Thing 6--Copyright in the Ditial Age

What have you been told that you may have just discovered is incorrect? I "thought" and have been told that you can not "legally" copy and use information that is copyrighted without permission, if you do, then you can go to court for it.

What things had you believed about copyright that have now been challenged? I feel that many things have been challenged when it comes to copyright. Thanks to the "Fair Use" documentation, this allows you to use copyrighted materials without permission or payment when the benefit outweighs the cost to the copyright owner. Having this ability, makes it much easier for teachers/educators to utilize more information without the "fear" of getting in trouble.

What new things do you think you will incorporate into your teaching practice now that you know the reality versus some myths? Well, to be honest, I am not sure of anything new, I currently have not felt that I what I have used in the past, will get me in trouble. It kind of falls under the thought of "a blinds eye...". Basically, what they don't see, they won't know that I used. Now, I can feel more at ease using materials to educate my students.

Thing 5-Photo mashup fun

Using photo mashup fun as I have above, creating a Magazine Cover, can really be a "reward" to students. Seeing this as a chance to show off what they have done, put headings and quotes on the magazine page can really give them a sense of accomplishment.

Another mashup that I would/could use would be the puzzle maker. Creating a puzzle of a picture allows students to use their creativity to assemble the picture so it will complete a task that they may have related to say a book report or research project. I have students create some sort of game for a "cereal box" book report, and the puzzle maker would be a great opportunity for the game portion of the report.

Lastly, the badge maker would be fun for each student to create their own title with their picture as a way to show their "ID" to the class and school. This could be used for lunch cards, hall passes, or simply a way to leave identification if they borrow something.

Thing 4--Photo Sharing

Photo sharing is a great way to allow students, in this case, to look for pictures related to a research project, or other topic they may be working on. They can share their pictures with others and allow others to print pictures if they choose.

This is also a great way for students to "show off" their work or what is going on in class. Parents, as well as other friends and relatives, could see what is happening in class and could potentially gain interest enough that they might volunteer to help out in class with future projects.

Lastly, I think that with my district, there are so many broken homes, or families that are not local, that this is a great way for the students to show what they are doing with others. This might give students a better sense of accomplishment with their work if they can share it with others.

Thing 3--Lifelong Learner

I have always thought of myself as a life long learner and with technology, that is very true. With the changes that happen daily, it is impossible to stay caught up with everything.

With being a lifelong learner, I think that habit 4, have confidence in yourself as a competent, effective learner, is the hardest for me. I get frustrated when things don't come easy and tend to give up. However, I have to keep putting my nose to the grindstone and get the work done. Learn it, use it, try it, and hopefully master it. I can improve this, but not giving up, try harder, and stick with it until I understand it.

The easiest habit for me would be habit 7, Teach/Mentor others. This is easy for me because once I understand the technology, I am ready to just go out there and show people what it can do. For me technology is a way of growing and giving yourself, and others, the opportunity to try new things and have fun with the "things" that are available to you.

The 7 1/2 habits are all great habits for life long learners, I need to keep them in mind and understand that they are there to help me and to grow me in my learning.