Things 1 and 2 again

Oh boy....just the fact that I began this experience 3 weeks ago and have to begin again shows how behind/awkward I am in the technology world. I went ahead so enthusiastically initially, and neglected to read directions thoroughly, so I blogged into another account other than blog spot, and of course wasn't quite sure how to copy and send to blog spot, so here it is again.

Well, I signed up for this course because I knew I was lagging behind in technological skills. Also, each day in the classroom lately, I feel more and more uncomfortable with the fact that students are so high tech in so many ways, and they enjoy and prefer learning in this manner. I know that in order to be an effective teacher, I need to get closer to where my students are coming from these days. So here I am, ready to learn!

After viewing the first video, I have to say that I was more engaged in the learning process due to the fact that the information was presented in an interesting, visual way...in a video format. so of course, I understand where my students are coming from these days.

As a teacher, I have always felt that every child learns differently, and that traditional reading and writing isn't the only way to instruct students. I have always allowed students to show what they've learned in what I used to think were more unconventional ways, power points, informational video productions, etc. But now I know, however, that this is conventional learning, 21st century skills. pretty cool...I've been ahead of the game with what I've allowed my students to do, but I need to get up to these skills with my own instruction. I will get there!

As far as blogging and sharing ideas with others, I think it is great! I am not afraid to be honest with my thoughts, because I know that this is truly how you learn. I welcome comments and honest feedback, and am very nonjudgemental to others' thoughts. I guess knowing that my thoughts are no longer private on a blog, gets me to think more carefully and thoughtfully about what I say. I think, "Is this really what I want to share with others?"