Profile pic

Picture upload

Mobile Devices & School Reality

I think we are very close to opening up the use of mobile devices in our schools.  This video clip presents some interesting information and a perspective that is hard to refute.  What do others think about cell phones in school?

Next Steps....

This clip always gets me thinking about the way of the future.  I am impressed with the global outlook this video presents.  Interestingly enough, by the time this information reaches educators needing to transform their classrooms, this video will be outdated with newer tech taking its place.  

History of Education...need for change

I think the discussion about the history of education is fascinating! It is all so true...factory models, assembly line, batches, forcing conformity on kids to fit one model....the list goes on right? What perplexes me is what continues to drive this type of system besides budgets? Teachers know that change can happen without increasing cost...especially with awesome tools like Google...so, what is the hold up? What gains are made by not shifting practice? 

Collaboration stretches thinking. We are inspired and challenged by each other. I often see and participate in the most amazing work when others are involved. I see a lot of potential for sites and drive to really transform the work my students will do this year to foster a more collaborative work environment. 

I also really enjoy the whiteboard presentations. It is a creative way to demonstrate information, I would like to see students try this for upcoming projects.

Testing Mobile App with Android Phone

Test

Google Search Info

The clips we viewed today about Google Search get me wondering about the needs my students have for a tech class which shares this type of info... However, I also feel that it is essential for tech to be integrated in the classroom with content. It will be anew challenge for teachers to fine tune the amount of time they must spend teaching students how to use aspects of technology prior to delivering content. Teaching technology as a stand alone course seems to be a practice from the past. Rather, students seem to be more engaged when they are able to incorporate passion in their work. For some students, passion maybe the content...others, the passion maybe using new technology.

Google Tools for My School

I am getting my Google brain going again.  It is exciting to think about how sites and drive will work  in my school.  These two tools will transform the way students access learning.  I am hopeful teachers will have a chance to transform the way they teach and bring about more personal learning plans.  The flipped classroom ties in nicely with Google Tools.  I know folks will go further than these two tools, but if we can get started school-wide using sites and drive, I believe we will transform learning experiences for all.  It will be a small step for some and year long focus for others.  The nice part will be an entire school community working on it together.