Doing "23 Things" for the second time has been more enlightening and fun than it was the first time. Last summer I was still such a "newbie" with 2.0 tools and felt pretty intimidated by them. I am feeling so much more confident and know that I can take things I've learned from playing wtih the 'things' and use them the very next day at school....not many face-to-face inservice workshops have ever claimed that.
I used Wordle today with about 150 7th graders spread out from 8-3:30 and we all had a ball. The kids liked it so much that those who have internet access at home were going to make some more at home. We even brainstormed a great idea for the kids to make one for their Mom for Mother's Day!
And that's what I have loved about participating in this - I learn new things so then I can share and teach the students and teachers at my school and open their eyes as mine have been opened about the cool things we can learn and share using technology.
1. Favorites - delicious, podcasting, rollyo I am using all 3 of these right now at school and have found them so useful. These 3 aren't blocked by my district.
2. Lifelong learning goals - I am feeling not so frustrated with technology when things don't work out instantaneously like I want them to. I used to just throw up my hands and quit - or start crying! Silly , I know but I'd get so frustrated. I'm getting better and better about feeling comfortable about all of my new tools and am actually excited about technology where I used to be fearful of it.
3. Unexpected outcome - Just being able to feel more comfortable when talking to our tech expert on campus, my husband, and others from the 'techie' world. I can actually follow along with what they're talking about when talking technology.
4.Do anything different - No! Perfect as it is!
5. Would you participate in another program - Yes! Where do I sign up?
6. One Word - Amazing! Essential for all in education! Yes, you can quote me!
This experience has convinced me more than ever that the librarians in our district need to band together and lobby our powers that be to get our district headed in the right direction as far as letting our kids use 2.0 tools.......thanks for putting this program together for us.
You certainly achieved the skills we had in mind, but also met one of the primary objectives we had square in the face...the confidence that you can do it when dealing with technology...and I do hope your group does band together and advocate for the learners in your district...you certainly have some great evidence to show in making your case! Good luck...your kids are lucky to have you in their corner.
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