Do No Harm! I think that is my big takeaway from my summer learning thus far. I have been focusing on how best to support teachers after the great influx of devices and tools over the last 2 years. Schools went from computer labs, carts, and shared devices, particularly at the elementary level to 1:1 in a matter of months. All the new tools: web conferencing, screen casting, LMS, digital curriculum, etc. The great shift happened, now what? I participated…
For the last couple of years, I have primarily been dealing with devices; enrolling, managing, setting up apps and extensions and trying to keep track of ever-shifting inventory. I am afraid my people skills may have gotten a little rusty. I wanted to reconnect with my past self and get my head back in the game of supporting teachers and their students. So I enrolled in the Apple Learning Coach program. I think it is one of the best-run professional…
My son is a sophomore in high school and we are beginning to look at his post-high school life. He goes to a terrific high school. My daughter also attended the same school and was well prepared for her college experience. She often remarks on how much better prepared she was then her fellow freshman. I am very please with the choice of high school for my children. My son’s passions are computers, math and gaming (computer, cards, board). So…
Those of you who follow this blog know that I have been experiencing a sift in my thinking about education over the last few years. Maybe not so much a shift but a clarification and redefining of what I mean by education, schooling and learning. I used to use these words almost interchangeably. But my experience as a parent, educator and, learner is teaching me that they are very different and sometimes in conflict. I also notice I am redefining…
(Please excuse a little personal rant) Science is big in my household – my husband and I are both scientists at heart. He still teaches science and I used to before moving into Instructional Tech. We are fascinated by all science; Earth, Space, Bio, Chemistry, Physics it does not really matter. My daughter’s dream since she was 5 has been to go into space and hopefully Mars with NASA. So when NASA scrolls by my twitter or plurk feed I…
My daughter is away on a school trip and I have taken to leaving iChat open in case she wants to chat. Doing so led to a spontaneous conversation with an educator I have not talked to in a long time. I respect this person greatly and love the freedom to discuss all kinds topics without fear of where they lead. To play devils advocate, to stir the pot of thought, and just talk for the joy of it is…
My growth as a learner has skyrocketed in recent years, as I became a connected learner. I believe I have learned more about teaching, learning and technology’s role in the process from self-directed, network supported interactions then I did in many of the formal educational opportunities in which I have participated. I am sure many of you feel the same way. My children are also connected learners and participate in many opportunities outside of traditional schooling. For example my daughter…