To Learn is To Teach

I think we should emphasize the importance of teaching the basics along with technology integration. Frequently, it feels like this becomes an either/or debate, when to really teach both things well, they should be taught simultaneously.
I appreciated the examples of what some states are doing to improve in the area of technology. Alabama surprised me in that they are training students to teach their teachers about technology. I find this very interesting. So many students know more about technology than their teachers. My students frequently teach me new things on my computer, which I always appreciate.

Going Paperless!

So far this school year I have vowed to be completely paperless. I have made a wikipage with all my documents that will be made available to all students at anytime; I'm hoping that I will no longer have to wait in line for the copy machine (fingers are crossed). The IT at my school also made a folder for every teacher that students can drop their assignments in. Only the owner of the folder (the teacher) has full rights to the documents in the folder so cheating does not create a problem. The students will also have the option of turning in work via email. All students grades 7-12 are given a state-approved email on the secured system. We are a one-to-one computer school where the teachers have tablets. I love inking on student papers! I no longer have to take folders of papers home to correct. I just grab my tablet...it's all there! I find that immediate feedback is way more possible...not to mention that my desk is cleaner! I'll let you know how it's going.

Summer's Off---BAH

Well, I know I haven't blogged in FOREVER! But, I have a very good and honest excuse...LOL. Another summer is gone and I plan on spending the summer taking care of a few things on my bucket list. One of them being taking more time for myself and getting closer to my family. But, unfortunately, summer is coming to an end and I must get back to technology. I still maintain several websites for others along with my own sites that are falling behind. So, my goal for this school year to delegate out some of the "fluff" in my life OR start charging for my services. I have also decided NOT to take on any new projects for free anymore. It's not that I'm becoming harder or meaner...I just need to find a way of giving my time and life away for free.

Technology Bootcamp--part 1

Professional Development

Well, in the spring of 2010, my esteemed administrator called me into the office and told me that I have been "chosen" to be our school's representative at the ESA 5 Technology Bootcamp. This choice did not surprise me as I do sign up regularily for any technology workshop and bring it back to the staff.

This was a year-long commitment, worth 5 graduate credits, and a $500 stipend...good selling point, money and credits usually was to any teacher. What can this workshop bring to me? Can I learn something new? What can I bring to the workshop? Only time will tell. The first training will be in August, right before school starts...very strategic move.