Estie's Gifts & Treasures

Ready, Set...Go!

2011-08-28T19:54:00.005-05:00

The school year has begun here in the great state of Texas. The first week back went well, I think. I have 4 preps this year, but thankfully, only 3 per semester. Last year I had 4 preps per semester--that was an experience.

I'm really excited about teaching Global Business this semester. I had the privilege of attending the Institute on the Environment and the Economy this summer sponsored by The Foundation for Teaching Economics and the Texas Council on Economic Education. Participating in this course gave me some awesome tools to help teach economics to my Global Business students and make it relevant. If you ever have the opportunity to attend any training sponsored by either of these organizations, seize it! It's worth the time, I assure you.

During the first week of school I introduced my students to me, their courses, class/course expectations, Google accounts, Wikispaces, and Blogs. This week as we begin our curriculum, the students will learn how to create a blog post, create links in the post, upload pictures to their post, and tag it. As the semester progresses they will learn a host of other Web2.0 applications integrated throughout the curriculum that I truly hope will help prepare them for success in both college and career.

It's going to be a great year!

Wordle picture found on Joan Vinall-Cox' blog.

What? No Way! It's Been That Long?

2011-08-18T05:48:00.005-05:00

Waaaaaaaay back in the year 2001 (haha), I went through a metamorphisis; I became a teacher. I left the corporate rat race because I wanted to make a difference. Still, it's hard to believe that I am beginning my 10th year in teaching. Where has the time gone?

As I reflect over the past nine years, I realize that I've "grown." I have a thirst for knowledge and that thirst keeps me learning, and pushing, and driving for new and creative ways to teach my students. I've always embraced project-based learning, but rather than create on paper, I now utilize Web2.0 tools and Flat Classroom style techniques to open students to a whole new world of possibilities. My goal? I want my students will become productive citizens as they finish their high school careers and begin writing new chapters in their book of life.

I have the priviledge of "keeping up" with a number of my former students on Facebook. It's exciting to see the paths they choose--

I'm energized to begin this school year...and...I wonder what the next ten years will bring?

Another Awesome Trade Fair!

2010-12-10T04:42:00.004-06:00

The 2010 Trade Fair has come and gone...once again my students did a great job! They were professional and just did great during the competition. We were perplexed that we didn't win best booth, but they did win 3rd place for highest sales!!

The students have started a Facebook Page to help promote WINC and sell the remainder of their inventory. Stop by our page...like us...order some products (credit cards accepted!)...we'll ship them to you!! All the ordering information is on our Info Page!!

See you on FaceBook!!!

2010 JA Trade Fair...Almost Here!

2010-11-16T12:37:00.004-06:00

It's hard to believe that the 2010 Junior Achievement Trade Fair is just a couple of weeks away! Seems like just yesterday WINC (that's the name of our JA Company Program here at Spring Woods HS) was in the very beginning stages of planning our premier product for this school year.

Members of the production team have the products ready (well mostly), the marketing team has begun advertising and building the booth, the sales team is busy honing its skills, the public relations team is busily sending out press releases...whew! So much to do in such a short period of time!

While I'm not ready to tell the world exactly what our product is...I can post a picture of one of our advertisements here. Right after our Thanksgiving Holiday I will post about this again and strongly encourage all my friends and colleagues to order this awesome product...it'll make a great Christmas present for someone you love!! :)

Glogster (Student Example)

2010-11-08T10:56:00.003-06:00

Teaching Glogster to my students...here's one I really liked. The assignment was to illustrate examples of Property (for Business Law). I think this student did a great job!

The Return

2010-11-08T10:16:00.007-06:00

Over the past year, I've allowed just about everything to interfere with my blogging. I'd like to see that trend end.

The start to this year has been a wild one--filled with more than just a little stress. It's November now and 'things' are beginning to settle in a bit. I find that now, more than ever I want to begin blogging again. So much is happening with my classes--how I'm implementing new technologies, finding different ways to deliver instruction--I want to share those experiences with others.

For example--one of the courses I am teaching this year is Business Law. If I'm not careful, it could become a very dry subject. Well, the students are studying about classifications of property right now. To help 'liven up' the topic, I created a mini-project for them. I chose to have them use Glogster to create their posters. Here's an example of how one student made this project just POP!

Here's another example that I liked as well (view this post)

Countdown...

2009-08-16T10:58:00.004-05:00

In just a week we'll begin a new school year in Texas...where did the summer go?? Oh yeah, that's right...I (gladly) spent my summer preparing for and attending the Junior Achievement North American Company of the Year competition with the officers of our JA Company Program, WINC. Awesome performance by our group (BTW). Very proud...and...that's right...I completed another online PD with my district, studied for and passed the MCAS Word exam, attended Conference and spent my weekends at tennis tourneys with my son...whew! Busy (but very fun) summer!

Now, it's time to complete my preparations for the upcoming school year. I received my schedule last Thursday. I will be teaching 'lots' of BCIS this year...which is great 'cause several of us will be piloting a program to help our students with certifications in IC3 and MCAS. WooHoo! Awesome...

I'll also have a couple of sections of Sports Marketing again this year as well. Thanks to last year's online PD, I was able to implement some cool Web2.0 technologies in this class...the students produced some great work.

I want to expand that this year. I will be expanding my unit on digital citizenship in all of my classes this year. I found that most of my students (last year) needed more than what I covered in class (especially when it came utilizing tools like backchanneling). I will be receiving video cameras...YEAH!!! I plan to utilize them in the Sports Marketing classes. I believe they will be a great resource for students to demonstrate creativity and content mastery..very exciting...

I've learned so much this summer that it's hard not to become overwhelmed. I have to keep telling myself, "Baby steps, just take baby steps." Maybe one day I'll be as "on" in my teaching as Vicki Davis, or Dan Meyer, but for now...baby steps...

11.5 More Things: Thing 11.5-Evaluation

2009-08-06T18:49:00.007-05:00

1. What were your favorite discoveries or exercises on this learning journey? I love Glogster! I've been looking for a way for my students to create digital posters...now I've got it! I also enjoyed creating a Voki. I've got some ideas on how to use Vokis to introduce lessons, new concepts, etc. I think students will enjoy listening to 'her' sometimes. I'm am also 'stoked' over my educational account at Animoto. I received my approval today...that resource alone is going to add volumes to student input. (Thanks, Vaughn! If not for you, I would have missed that link!)

2. How has this program assisted or affected your lifelong learning goals? The Library2Play and Library2Play2 online PD courses help to keep me informed and enlightened on new technologies that I can integrate into my curriculum. I'm excited about bringing fresh ideas into my curriculum to both engage students and add further rigor and relevance to what I teach.

3. Were there any take-a-ways or unexpected outcomes from this program that surprised you? SlideShare and authorSTREAM were my big surprises. I will definitely use these resources to help connect my students to experts and to share my students work. Great stuff...

4. What could we do differently to improve upon this program’s format or concept? I love the concept and I love the format...please don't change that! There's more than 12 hours here, that's for sure! I found myself going back to different sites...I have already taught my son how to use Glogster (he wants to make NASCAR posters) and I apologized to my husband about SlideShare (read my post for details). Awesome work guys...please keep these coming our way!!!

11.5 More Things: Thing 11-Digital Citizenship

2009-08-06T16:18:00.004-05:00

I've been thinking a lot about digital citizenship and how best to teach this to my students. I am glad to see digital citizenship as a part of this online PD series.

As a Career and Technology Education (CTE) teacher, I teach a variety of subjects that involve an enormous amount of computer time. I have norms (rules) that I teach my students--for them to use the lab they must adhere to these policies. I have made netiquette a part of these norms, but I have not developed digital citizenship lessons that outline and teach all nine elements of digital citizenship as outlined by Mike Ribble and Gerald Bailey in their book Digital Citizenship in Schools...until now...

My plan for this year is to integrate all nine elements into my curriculum. My introductory lesson will have the students research the term "digital citizenship" and then have them create a multimedia piece (of their choice) that illustrates the definition of digital citizenship and how they can "live it" both in and out of the classroom.

I found a number of videos about digital citizenship online. I think this one would spark some discussion in class...what do you think?

11.5 More Things: Thing 10-Virtual Worlds

2009-08-06T16:00:00.000-05:00

I took the plunge into Second Life about a year ago. It's amazing to me just how real this virtual world can be. What I found in my exploration was that Second Life (for me anyway) was incredibly time-consuming.

With that said--I think that virtual worlds are amazing...and I do believe that as educators we have an opportunity to use these virtual worlds in a host of different educational venues. Vicki Davis (the world's most amazing teacher) has been working with her freshmen to build a virtual world that teaches digital citizenship. Imagine the possibilities of teaching other subjects via virtual worlds like second life...what a great way to keep our students engaged.

I have so many new things that I want to incorporate into my teaching this year; adding virtual worlds to that would be awesome. Let's see where the year takes us!

11.5 More Things: Thing 9-Slideshare

2009-08-02T17:44:00.004-05:00

My husband has been trying to get me into SlideShare for a while now. I've resisted because I felt there are better forms of communicating on the Net.

I stand corrected (sort of). There are (in my opinion) better forms of communication on the net, but after digging through the SlideShare site for a while it hit me...there are a LOT of professionals that are posting their expertise here--expertise from which my students can benefit. In addition, if (when) I have students that produce a quality presentation about something they have been researching, they just might get noticed and recognized for their work (by someone other than me). That's a good thing...

Moreover, I really like what I see with authorSTREAM. It's like SlideShare on steroids. I especially like the Present Live feature because it works with VoIP applications like Skype.

I found this presentation on authorSTREAM...note how only the children wanted to stop and listen...our students want us to take the time for them--will we??

The Violinist

Uploaded on authorSTREAM by Niki55 Upload your own presentation

11.5 More Things: Thing 8-Screencasting

2009-08-02T16:24:00.014-05:00

I have Camtasia and use it often...what I haven't done is research free alternatives on the Internet that my students can use. Of the 'freebies' listed in the Library2Play post, I think I like Jing the best.

Thanks to what I've learned about the freeware, I'm excited about the possibilities of using screencasting with my students this coming year. I would like to see my students create screencasts that illustrate what they are learning in class. Those screencasts can then be used as tutorials for other students...and...it I can use them as an assessment tool.

Here's the screencast I created for this post. I did this without a script, so there are a few mistakes, but in all, I think it's okay!

11.5 More Things: Thing 7-Video Resources

2009-08-02T12:34:00.008-05:00

Integrating video and other multimedia is becoming a regular practice for me. For example, in my Sports Marketing Class I utilize Google Video searches and Hulu to show commercials to the students. The students analyze various elements within the commercials and then make suggestions on what changes they could make to reach a different target audience. During my video searches on this particular thing, I came across this video from blip.tv ...my marketing students are going to love this!

This past January, I had the priviledge of completing a workshop Frank Guttler at the Flat Classroom Conference. Frank is part of the AFI Screen Education. I am very excited about the possibilities of integrating video production as part of the learning process in my classes. The site includes a Teacher Path and a Student Path. The paths include both written guides and video tutorials so that teachers can learn and then teach students how to create effective videos.

I found an updated "Did You Know?" on YouTube. Karl Fisch, Scott McLeod, and Jeff Brenman have done an excellent job illustrating challenges and opportunities we face in the digital age. I plan to show this video to all of my students (probably on the first day of school)...I want to stress to the importance of becoming life-long learners (and having fun while you learn, too).

11.5 More Things: Thing 6-iTouch Apps

2009-08-01T20:21:00.011-05:00

iTouch:

I had fun with this 'thing.' I personally do not own an iPhone or an iTouch (too attached to my BlackBerry), but I recently helped my parents purchase one.

I borrowed their phone and found a couple of apps I felt appropriate...namely Google Earth. It was amazing to search with the phone as opposed to my computer. I also accessed a couple of my class wikis to see what the interface would look like...awesome! It took me a couple minutes to get the hang of how to use a smaller space to edit; however, I found it invigorating to complete edits in this different interface.

I scanned so many apps...I can see a number of uses for the iTouch in our Resource Center. I'm a computer geek in a computer lab, though, so I wanted to see what librarians and others thought about the possibilities. I surfed through the 'Beachcombers' and 'Certifed Divers' (those participating in this online PD) and found one post particularly interesting. I believe this blogger is a Spring Branch librarian...anyway I love the ideas presented there and agree with them...

What would be ideal; however, would be to get an iTouch in the hands of all students. They would have instant access to any/all school information including news/announcements, athletic schedules, testing information...they could download podcasts/vidcasts of lessons, share student generated work...the list goes on...wonder if we could write a grant for something like that? Things that make you go hhhmmmm....

Wikipedia:

I'm a wikipedia junkie and have been for a long time now. I'm still amazed at the number of core teachers that will not allow students to use Wikipedia as a source in research. But, then again, I'm amazed at the number of core teachers that discount Career and Technology Education "only vocational," "not rigorous," and "only for students not going to college." How misinformed is that?...but, that's another post entirely.

Back to Wikis...

I learned about wikis last summer while completing the "23 Things" online PD. I decided to try and incorporate wikis into my classes. The application of wikis worked very well in my Sports Marketing Class and my Business Education Independent Study (BEIS) classes. In addition, my BEIS class participated in the 2008 Flat Classroom Project, which utilizes wikis so that students across the globe can communicate and collaborate to complete a comprehensive project.

Wikis are an amazing way for students to collaborate. I found that many of my student teams worked on assignments (diligently) outside of class. It was 'homework,' but the students didn't see it that way. They were innovating, creating, and collaborating...these are some of the characteristics that that define the NetGeneration.

We have 21st century learners in our classes that demand a 21st century approach to education...wikis (and wikipedia) are a part of that approach.

11.5 More Things: Thing 5-Microblogging

2009-08-01T18:07:00.004-05:00

Microblogging...I like MicroBlink's definition best:

Microblogging [mahy-kroh-blŏg-ing] verb: A small-scale form of blogging,
generally made up of short, succinct messages, used by both consumers and
businesses to share news, post status updates and carry on conversations.

I'm hooked on it. I've reached the point where I'm not sure I want to be with out it. Twitter and Facebook make it easy to communicate with friends, collaborate with colleauges, connect with groups of interest, and keep abreast of news and current events. Bill Gates wrote a book called, "Business at the Speed of Thought." The digital age has brought us to "Life at the Speed of Thought." Microblogging does its part to help keep me...all of us...current with our ever-changing environment.

Even better, microblogging allows me to connect with educators and business leaders. I've developed virtual relationships with experts in marketing, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. I've learned from them--gleaned from their expertise. All this connectedness results in my becoming a better, more well-informed teacher...which in turn promotes a better, more engaged learning environment for my students. Laura Walker's Post really says it best.

I use both Twitter and Facebook to help connect my Junior Achievment students. In addition, I've used backchanneling in a few of my classes. I think it's a great tool for class--it does take patience and training, however, to get students on board with the how to use it properly. Here's one personal example of how I used Chatzy this past school year (with great success).

11.5 More Things: Thing 4-Video Hosting

2009-08-01T15:42:00.006-05:00

YouTube. TeacherTube. SchoolTube. Vimeo. UStream...

I have accounts at all of these sites. I have posted most of my videos; however, on YouTube. Until recently, they were the only site that accepted larger videos...trouble is, though I can't get to YouTube from my classroom (hopefully, that will change soon).

In the meantime, I utilize video in my classes from the other sites I listed here and also from places like Hulu. While surfing the "CATE" (Career & Technology Education) channel on TeacherTube, I found this video. If this doesn't inspire us as teachers to revolutionize our teaching methodologies, nothing will.

Ever since meeting Frank Guttler this past January, I've wanted to incorporate video into my curriculum. I think it's a great way to teach (utilizing Vidcasting) content and I believe it's a great avenue for students to demonstrate content mastery. I'm so convinced of this that I've requested a number of video cameras and related equipment for my classroom this year. If all goes well, my students will start incorporating video (along with a host of other digital tools) in my classes. Be looking for some terrific student-generated material!!! :-)

11.5 More Things: Thing 3-Skype

2009-08-01T15:00:00.002-05:00

I love Skype. I was introduced to it almost a year ago and use it often. This past January while I was in Doha, Qatar for the inaugural Flat Classroom conference, I utilized Skype to stay in touch with family and colleagues back home.

I want to utilize Skype to bring experts into my classes this year. Perhaps Jeremiah Owyang for marketing, or Jeff Utect for educational technology, or...well, I could go on, but you get the point...With tools like Skype, it makes it much easier to connect my students with all kinds of experts...thus enriching their learning experience and creating both rigor and relevance in my curriculum.

It would also be great Skype home-bound students into my class. I could even utilize the tool to Skype in students that have been assigned to the alternative learning campus.

If you're on Skype...look me up! Estie03

11.5 More Things: Thing 2-Image Generators

2009-08-01T09:48:00.014-05:00

I really enjoyed learning about new image generators. I was already familiar with Wordle and Animoto. I wasn't, however, familiar with WordSift, Glogster, VoiceThread, Voki, or Bookr. I've spent the last 4 hours or so 'playing' with these new tools. My mind is spinning on how I can incorporate them into my curriculum!

WordSift: Works a lot like Wordle, but the words in the cloud become links to further information. Great tool for research!

Glogster: Had a blast with this one! In ten minutes I created a poster that presents a snapshot of my Junior Achievement officers at the North American Company of the Year competition in Boston. I can see my students using this tool to complete assignments in class, illustrate information and research...I believe that I can even use this as an effective assessment tool. Perhaps the best feature of Glogster is its 'interactiveness.' Students can embed audio, video, images, and text. In addition, this tool allows students to be very creative in how they present the material (a big plus in my book!).

VoiceThread: Interactive Podcasting? My first thought was to have student teams create threads based on what we are studying in class. Then other student teams could listen and add relevant information to the thread. A great way to study...and, it gives me yet another assessment tool!

Animoto: Fun tool! I created a video a couple of months back. I had fun...if I did, I know the students will. I could use this tool to present new information to students, or students could use animoto to present research information, etc. The only drawback here is that you have to subscribe ($$) to create videos longer than 30 seconds.

Voki: Awesome! I would love to use this tool to introduce assignments to my students, welcome them to class, review...wouldn't it be a great way for students to share information to help them study for a test? Lots of Vokis embedded on our wiki? Sounds like a fun way to study to me!

Here's my first attempt at creating a Voki:

Bookr: This tool was really easy to use. A great way for students to illustrate learned material. The only drawback that you have to have the images uploaded to Flickr to use this tool. What would make this tool even more useful is if you could upload images from your computer and/or other sites like Facebook.

11.5 More Things: Thing 1

2009-08-01T09:28:00.009-05:00

Last summer I had the priviledge to participate in online PD through my district--the PD was called "23 Things." The training introduced me to Web2.0 technologies and helped me brainstorm ideas on how I could integrate these technologies into my classroom.

It was awesome! My students began reflecting on assignments using blogs instead of paper/pen notebooks. They set up Readers, subscribed to RSS feeds, shared information via social bookmarking, and completed several projects using only Web2.0.

This summer, I once again have the opportunity to learn "11.5 More Things" via online PD from my district. I want to learn more and integrate more into my curriculum...thus keeping my students actively engaged in their learning.

"Thing 1" includes a great video. Here it is...BTW: this is my goal for my students!

Here we go!!!!

It's Been a Month??? What?

2009-03-25T08:53:00.009-05:00

It's SO hard for me to believe that I haven't blogged in almost a month! Wow! Where did the time go?

A lot has happened this past month...

The students I blogged about in my last post were featured on our high school "Tiger TV" channel

My Junior Achievement Company Program students successfully created, delivered, and set up 70 incredible centerpieces for the Crystal Apple Awards Gala

My BEIS class participated in a JA Titan competition while still working on the NetGenEd Project

I had new systems installed in my computer lab (yeah!!!!...the old ones SO did not work anymore!!)

My younger son 'champed up' in Tennis (woo hoo!)

We moved my parents in with us during spring break

Needless to say, I've been incredibly busy. My only regret in all of this is that it has prevented me from being as involved as I wanted to be in the NetGenEd Project. It's is such an amazing opportunity for the students who are involved. I've been reduced to lurking about...trying to keep up as best I can with all of the happenings. I haven't had the time to participate in the webinars, the book club...not much of anything..and, well, frankly it's depressing... :-(

I am excited that my students will finish their videos on time, though. They have some incredible ideas for their videos; I'm looking forward to seeing those ideas come to life. These are the same students that participated in the 2008 Flat Classroom Project and the Flat Classroom Conference. They are amazing students! Most of them are seniors, so it's a little hard to get them to focus right now...they've all been accepted to various colleges and universities, so now they are waiting to hear about all of the scholarships for which they've applied. Plus, they are getting ready for the prom, various banquets, etc...

Well...off to help my students post-produce their NetGenEd multi-media artifacts!! Promise it won't be another month before I post again!!

Photo credit: http://eladthegreat.wordpress.com/2009/01/13/the-ultimate-clock/

Proud as a Peacock

2009-02-27T11:50:00.004-06:00

I received an email last week from Ms. Branom. She is the Library Information Specialist for our District. Much to my delight, she asked if my "Qatar" students (that is, my students who participated in the Flat Classroom Conference) would make a presentation about their involvement in the Flat Classroom Project and Conference to the District Curriculum and Instruction Team.

Wow! What an opportunity! The students (Karla, Steve, and Erika) began brainstorming on how they would create a presentation...then...it hit them...POW!!! (or something like that)...why not utilize what they had learned from Frank Guttler at the conference?? Make a video that would chronicle their walk through the project, the conference, and their reflections!!!

So...they began...they first drew a storyboard. Then they did some video tape, chose some pictures, made some stills...awesome!

Since my computer is the only one with any post-production software on it :-(, I helped them post-produce the video. I must say they did pretty well...and...the C & I Team loved it. The best part though was how well the students fielded questions from the Team Members. They were asked for their input on project-based learning, the changing role of the teacher, and the implementation of different technologies in the classroom.

The students let the Team members know that they are (by default) multi-taskers and they would like to see more classrooms utilize that strength. They advocate laptops for all students and they conveyed how much they like using the back-channel in my class.

Take a look at their video and let me know what you think...I'm proud!!

Score 1 More for Technology in the Classroom

2009-02-09T16:30:00.004-06:00

I stayed home from work today...the flu...

I felt just awful, but I really needed to meet with my Business Education Independent Study class. Today begins their trek into a Junior Achievement Titan competition and they needed to made their first round of business decisions...how can we do that when they are there and I am here? Enter technology...

...I set up a private chat room for us via Chatzy last week so that we could communicate and record our ideas during class I discovered Chatzy while attending the Flat Classroom Conference in Doha, Qatar last month--thanks Julie and Vicki!!. Since I can save text files of the chat room for later reference, we can recall our recorded chats as needed to make decisions for the JA Titan competition. Pretty cool, huh?

I called the substitute and told her what I wanted to do. With her support...well, having access to Chatzy helped make a difficult situation much easier. I was home...they were in class...We all logged into the room and began our chat. We exchanged ideas, scenarios, consequences, etc. Via the chat, the students made informed decisions for their competition.

Once again...I was able to utilize technology to be a 'guide on the side' rather than a 'sage on the stage' in my classroom...man, I love technology!

Favorite Superbowl Commercial

2009-02-02T09:24:00.004-06:00

Every year there's that one Super Bowl commercial that rises above the others. This commercial does just that...

My Favorite Super Bowl Commercial...this one really spoke to me. It works on several different levels...has a broad target base, yet is personal (and I'm not even a Pepsi fan).

Life-Changing...

2009-01-30T11:30:00.007-06:00

As you are aware by now (if you read my blog), this past week three of my Spring Woods High School students (Karla Nava, Steve Ramos, and Erika Bautista) attended the inaugural Flat Classroom Conference & Student Leadership Summit in Doha, Qatar. While the Conference achieved a number of objectives, one of the main goals was for international student teams to develop a Global Collaborative Project that addresses a pressing social need.

The students were placed in purely international teams; they worked with no one from their school—no one from their home country. These teams brainstormed and developed innovative projects to address needs such as AIDS awareness, discrimination/racism, education, and poverty. Then, the student teams pitched their ideas to a panel of judges (all of us educators in attendance). The top four teams are now competing via online voting. The winning project will be launched as a global collaborative project in 2009. I am proud to announce that two of our students (Karla Nava and Steve Ramos) are members of two of the top four teams.

I would like to invite all of you to vote as well. Please visit the Flat Classroom Ning to cast your vote. On the main page (in the middle section) you will see links to watch the ‘pitches’ (or commercials) the students created to sell others on their idea. In addition, there are links to visit their Wikispace so you can review their research. Once you have viewed the pitches, please cast your vote.

Once you have cast your vote, take some time to surf around the Flat Classroom Conference Ning. There you will find blog posts, videos, photos, and presentations that will give you a glimpse into just how incredible this opportunity was for our students. If you have any questions, or would like for one of these students (or me) to speak with your class, please email me to make arrangements…and please take a moment to congratulate these students on their successes in Doha.

Impressions from Oman

2009-01-25T04:33:00.005-06:00

Attending the Flat Classroom Conference has provided the opportunity for those of us from Spring Woods High School to meet the students and teachers with which we have worked for the past semester and that's great. But more than that, the students are deepening their understanding of other peoples and cultures as they work toward planning a new Flat Classroom Project.

It was fun to connect on the Ning and the Wiki during the project; it's even more fun to collaborate face-to-face. I believe both are important. I had the chance to speak with one of the student groups from Oman as we toured Doha yesterday. Here are their impressions of the of Flat Classroom Project.

Dune Bashing in Qatar

2009-01-24T06:44:00.007-06:00

Yesterday was absolutely incredible! Our group went on a desert excursion that included camel rides, dune bashing and a fabulous dinner.

We left from the hotel around 2pm Doha time for the desert. The ride was amazing. I took a lot of 'dune bashing' video. I'm working right now to upload to videos to YouTube and MyPage on the Flat Classroom Conference Ning. Here's a teaser.

The Tigers Have Landed!

2009-01-22T23:35:00.003-06:00

...Spring Woods High School Tigers that is...

Our group arrived in Doha, Qatar for the Flat Classroom Conference around 11pm local time last night. We are a little tired, but feel fine otherwise.

Today we will have breakfast together here at the Gloria Hotel and then Ray Jones from the Qatar Academy will pick us up and take us on a tour of both the Academy and Doha proper. I can hardly wait to meet everyone.

Then, this afternoon we will go Dune Bashing...will post photos and videos after the desert exursion...find our pictures here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/estiec

I Stand Corrected...Well, Sort Of...

2009-01-16T11:07:00.006-06:00

All through the Winter Break I believed that we were not going to be able to make the trip. My blog post about our quandry reflected my mood. We hadn’t raised nearly enough money and felt certain that the students would want an ‘all or nothing’ scenario about attending the conference.

When the students returned to school on January 6, I proposed the question to them. They asked for a couple of days to think about it. They came back to me the next day (they had their own meeting about the situation) and said they felt that if they all couldn’t go at least some of them should since they all had worked so hard on the Flat Classroom Project. I reminded them that we had money for only 3 students to attend—and those students could attend only if: 1. Mr. Stallworth (our principal) supported this change in plans, and 2. Those three students would need to contribute roughly $500 each toward airfare and other expenses.

They agreed, so I proposed the change to Mr. Stallworth and he gave his approval. Now, we had to choose which three of the 9 would attend. Steve R and Karla N both won awards for their Project Multi-media artifact, so they were selected based on those awards. All that was left was to choose the third student out of the 7 remaining.

Admirably, the three juniors took themselves out of the running. They said that they would have an opportunity to participate and attend the Conference next year. That left 4 seniors…two of which said the $500 wasn’t possible for them to raise. Now we were down to two remaining seniors. I told them that I couldn’t choose…they would have to devise a plan. They decided on an essay contest. Each student wrote an essay on why they should be selected to attend/what the conference meant to them. When I read the essays, I wept. Both essays were wonderful and very touching. How could I choose?

Since I couldn’t choose, I turned the matter over to Julie Lindsey and Vicki Davis. They too were equally impressed with the essays and had difficulty trying to select a ‘winner.’ They decided to factor in the students’ Project Multi-media artifacts to help them make a decision. It worked…they felt that Erika B’s video was the more creative and informative of the two, so Erika was selected as our third participant.

Then…the rush to pay for tickets and to secure copies of passports, etc…all the while still planning for and teaching 100+ students! Wow!

Here's an update on our finances: Our airfare is paid for…what would just be superb would be to get in a few donations that would cover expenses for the students while we are there so that their families would be relieved of the burden of any more expenses. The ChipIn on our conference blog says $3,000…if we could raise $700-$1,000 I know that would cover the additional expenses.

So...if you can, if your are willing, please ChipIn for my students!

7 "Things" About Me...

2009-01-11T17:30:00.003-06:00

I was tagged by Ernie Easter, who was tagged by Mark Spahr, who was tagged by Richard Byrne...well, you get the idea.

I've been tagged to share seven things about me that my PLN may not know. Since I'm fairly new to the blogosphere, my fledgling PLN just may want to know a little bit more about this Texas teacher...so, here goes...

1. I sang in a gospel rock band. That's right! Back in the early 80's I spent a couple of years singing both lead and backup vocals in a local gospel rock band. We did some of our own material as well as covers from bands like Petra, the Resurrection Band, Mylon LeFevre, and DeGarmo and Key.

2. I didn't start college until I was 25. When I graduated high school in '82, I was all set to attend Stephen F. Austin State University. Instead, I got married to my 'high school sweetheart.' By the age of 23, I was divorced with a 6-month old son and no education. Times were tough and it took awhile, but I now hold a BBA (graduated Summa Cum Laude) and an MBA. This is a story I share with my high school students in hopes of motivating them to graduate college before they get married and start a family.

3. Some of my dad's ancestors were highlanders. I've been told that my dad's ancestors were part of the Robertson clan...I would love to visit Scotland one day and see in person that beautiful country.

4. Incompetence drives me insane! I have a sticker on my home office computer that says, "I'm tired of stupid people." My impatience with the incompetent sometimes comes across to others as snobbishness or rudeness, but I don't mean for it to...honest...I'm working on this, but I have to tell you that I just feel there's no excuse for laziness or incompetence.

5. I have cheated death--twice. Once: when I was four--I almost choked to death on a piece of Halloween candy. It was blue...I was blue and passing out before my dad manage to dislodge it from my throat. Twice: when I was 20--I almost drown tubing down the Guadalupe River in Texas. My tube was pulled to the rough side of the rapids--civil service volunteers had to pull me from the water, very scary.

6. I wanted to play Tennis competitively when I was young. But...my 'old school' parents felt that girls shouldn't play sports. I've followed the sport for years, but, I just picked up the game after my son started playing a few years ago. I would love to devote more time to the sport--to learn how to play more competitively--but my schedule with school and Junior Achievement just won't permit it. So, I play when I can...I have lots of fun playing with my son (who beats me regularly!)

7. I want to meet Tom Petty and Ted Nugent. I have never been one to become starry-eyed over celebrities; in fact, I don't read about them or watch shows about them because I just can't stand the hype. The only celebrities I've ever wanted to meet are Tom Petty and Ted Nugent. I love their music...have seen them both in concert multiple times...they just both seem like very interesting people. I think I'd like to talk politics with them...

People that I would like to see participate? I'm not sure who has been tagged, but I would like to see these people participate (or send me their link if they already have)
@coolcatteacher
@markclayson
@chrisbrogan
@coyenator
@kanter
@jeffpower
@creativesage

Put a Fork in Me, I'm Done

2008-12-26T19:08:00.004-06:00

I've been beating my head against a brick wall now for over a month...I'm done.

A group of my students qualified to attend the upcoming Flat Classroom Leadership Conference in Doha, Qatar. I've been working tirelessly to raise money so that we can attend. We were awarded a scholarship that will help, but we needed to raise somewhere in the neighborhood of $20K in addition to the scholarship. To date...we've raised around $4300.

I know that the economy is tough, but I really felt like people would help. I started a ChipIn campaign and Tweeted about my students until people started unfollowing me. I contacted a number of media...we were featured on a local station here in Houston, still nothing.

I've been mostly offline the past month making calls, knocking on doors, talking with anyone who would listen about my students and the importance of attending the Conference. Absolutely EVERYONE that I have spoken with says that they believe in Thomas Friedman's work and that they see the relevance, the necessity of the students' attendance, still few are willing to help. If everyone that I have spoken with would have donated $25, we'd be on our way. When I tell people that they give me a funny look, but still do not pull out their wallet to help (although they say they support the cause).

This is it...I am spent...I've done all that I know how to do. Maybe someone will read this post and decide to help us...I sure hope so...

To my Students: I've done all that I know to do to help you get to Doha, but it wasn't enough...I am truly sorry...

To Tenure or Not to Tenure...That is the Question...

2008-11-30T18:31:00.004-06:00

Look...I've been following the Michelle Rhee 'thing' for a few months now. DyDan loves her, Shareski--well, maybe not so much.

Personally, I like Rhee's approach. She is flying in the face of the conventional approach to the education management model. Tenure? What the hell is THAT in private industry? I can not remember a time when my job was secure "just because." Ummm...."Eddie, what have you done for me lately?" rings a loud and resounding bell. Why in God's name should a teacher's job be secure just because he/she is a teacher?

I left business/industry with a passion to help students--specifically secondary students. I spent way too much time as a sales and/or marketing manager looking for part time help that couldn't put together a decent resume/application, didn't know that first thing about interviewing, etc. I have had numerous instances where applicants answered their mobile phones during interviews...not to mention their dress, demeanor, etc...excuse me???? Just where have we lost it with young people??

As a teacher (as in industry), I work hard to be innovative...teaching in a Title I school (my choice), I realize that reaching students is more of a challenge...but...I love a challenge! I recognize and value the diversity in my students. I teach them to value their uniqueness and use that to become successful students, graduates, employees, entrepreneurs.

I believe Michelle Rhee to be an innovator, a reformer of sorts. She was considered to be possibly under qualified for her position, but her passion with regard to the success of students (not the convenience of staff/faculty) won her the position...and won her that position INSIDE the beltway...things that make you go hmmmmm...

Where I differ from Rhee is in the 'standardized testing' as THE measure for GREAT teaching. While I do believe that students needs to demonstrate they 'have gotten it' for ANY subject, I don't believe that the fate of a teacher (or a student) should hinge on a yearly standardized test. Too often (I have seen it), teachers will teach to the test to 'look' successful when in reality no true learning has taken place (see Tony Wagner's research for verification).

It eludes me completely that so learned of a group (our educational managers--the 'powers that be') has been so slow to reform systemically an educational system that clearly is not meeting the needs of most students. Why can we not develop an effective system that analyzes effectively student learning and evaluate teacher effectiveness? Are we SO drenched in the status-quo that we ignore the possibilities? I believe that Michelle Rhee is trying...my hope is that she doesn't get SO caught up in standardized testing that she misses out on the necessity of developing the WHOLE child.

Attending the Flat Classroom Conference...Will You Help?

2008-11-22T16:03:00.004-06:00

This semester my students and I have been priviliged to participate in the 2008 Flat Classroom Project created by Vicki Davis and Julie Lindsey (my mentors, whether they realize it or not!). The project is based on Thomas Friedman's best selling book, The World is Flat.

Participating in the Project is incredible. My students are producing content on the Flat Classroom Wiki with students from around the globe. What they are creating is simply phenomonal to me. Tony Wagner would be proud of the type of "redefined rigor." ::smiles:: I never ceased to be amazed at what students can do whenever teachers get out of the way.

I digress...

The culmination of this year's Flat Classroom Project is the Flat Classroom Leadership Conference and Student Summit to be held in Doha, Qatar this coming January. I have been given permission by my School Board to attend the conference with 9 of my students involved in the project. We REALLY want to attend this conference! My students will come away from this experience enriched, engaged, and ready to succeed as they go off into college.

But...I trip like this costs big $$$. We are in the process of fundraising. I'm posting this out in the blogoshere looking for Angels who see the benefits and will help our students. My students and I have started a "Conference Blog." You can follow our Project progress on this blog...we've also posted a Sponsorship Brochure , which includes a Donation Form. All donations are tax deductable...

Will you help?

A Note of Thanks

2008-11-18T16:48:00.001-06:00

I received this from a fellow teacher today. What a terrific way to let the men and women of the Armed Forces know that we care about them, their families, and their safety.

I pray they all come home soon!

Rigor Redefined...

2008-10-30T19:04:00.010-05:00

The blogosphere has been abuzz responding to Tony Wagner's article in ASCD's October Issue. The title of the Wagner's research is, "Rigor Redefined." Two of the best blog responses I encountered came from Vicki Davis (on her CoolCatTeacher Blog) and VYonkers (as a response to Vicki's post).

Wow! Incredible articulation on impeccable research. In his article, Wagner compares the "education students need" v. "the education that students get." Through Wagner's research he realizes that these two are in conflict with one another. What students need to "build successful careers" and "become good citizens" currently do not match the education they actually receive in school.

According to industry leaders, what students need to learn are attributes that include Critical Thinking and Problem Solving, Collaboration and Leadership, Agility and Adaptability, Initiative and Entrepreneurialism, Effective Oral and Written Communication, Accessing and Analyzing Information, and Curiosity and Imagination.

So what are students learning? In short, test prep for standardized tests. Tony Wagner concludes:

Across the United States, I see schools that are succeeding at making adequate early progress but failing our students. Increasingly, there is only one curriculum: test prep. Of the hundreds of classes that I've observed in recent years, fewer than 1 in 20 were engaged in instruction designed to teach students to think instead of merely drilling for the test.

What? You've got to be kidding me? What's it going to take to stem the tide? I don't pretend to have all the answers, but I believe that it's time for those in charge of our educational system here in the U.S. to pull their heads out of the sand and listen to what our industry leaders are telling us. Scoring high on an AP exam, an SAT, or any standardized state test (like the TAKS here in Texas) is no indicator of success in college and career.

When hiring for a position, managers are looking for creative self-starters. People who take ownership in their positions and are avid team players, leaders, and critical thinkers...risk takers who tackle issues and look for creative solutions to problems and challenges.

I frequently have students get frustrated with me because I require them to work in teams, make them accountable for assignments, and look for creative solutions to challenges. I admit that I rarely cover as much 'content' as some of my colleagues, but I am passionate about teaching and about preparing my students for what lies ahead of them. I can do more, but by requiring them to team play, take some risks, and problem-solve to find creative solutions, I think I'm on my way to doing my part...I look forward to the day when the "fewer than 1 in 20 engaged classrooms" becomes "20 in 20 engaged classrooms."

A Mobile 'Twitterventure'

2008-10-26T09:12:00.003-05:00

This past summer I took the plunge and upgraded my mobile phone...I purchased a Blackberry Curve. I love this phone. I can manage both my work and home email accounts, store a plethora of contact information, browse Facebook... ... ... the list goes on... ... ...

What I want is a Twitter application for my Blackberry. You'd think this would be a simple request, right? I know that I can pull up Twitter via my mobile browser, but, well, I'm spoiled. I want an application, darn it!

The Twitter Fan Wiki has a page devoted to Mobile Apps. There's a laundry list there of mobile apps. So far I've tried Quakk, Twitter2Go, Shozu (boy that was a disaster), and Blackbird. The only one that works at all (on my phone) is Blackbird. It's a nice interface, but it doesn't show me updates automatically. With Facebook, I get notices when there are updates, but not with the Blackbird. I guess I shouldn't complain, maybe there isn't a mobile application out there to do what I want it to do.

Ummm...if you know of one, would you let me know? Thanks!

Creative Collaboration and Web2.0

2008-10-25T07:22:00.006-05:00

Since the beginning of the school year my Sports & Entertainment Marketing class has been learning about the 7-key functions of marketing, the marketing mix, target marketing, segmenting, and positioning (whew!). My approach has been to incorporate activities with all of the concepts to facilitate understanding of them. For example, when we studied the key function of Marketing Information Management (i.e. research), I had the students participate in taste test of colas and then complete a questionnaire. My student teacher, Kim Clayton aggregated the results for us and we discussed the possible implications. The students loved it...frankly, I had fun, too.

So...this week my class began a comprehensive project--It's called, "Rock On!". The goal of this project is for them to synthesize the concepts they've learned thus far and plan a 20-city U.S. tour for a musical group (sounds like fun, huh?).

Now, I wish I could take total credit for creating this project, but I cannot. I found the original project from a "Best Practices" ebook put together by Jeff McCauley of The Marketing Teacher. However, the original project involved lots of printing and creating of 'static' artifacts--I want to incorporate Web2.0 into the project to make a more rigorous and relevant project for my students. I created a Wiki for my classes this year. So far though (thanks to the hurricane 'vacation'), I really haven't had time to implement the use of it--until now.

I have placed the Project Parameters on the Wiki and created a BlogRoll page for the Sports Marketing students with links to their Team Pages. They will placing their artifacts on their Team Pages, discussing their progress in Discussions, etc. We should finish the project in a couple of weeks.

I would LOVE to have some feedback from both educators and marketing gurus on the Project. Do you like it the way I have it set up? What can I do to make the project 'better?' And the BIGGIE: would you be willing to 'judge' the results? What are your thoughts on the artifacts the students produce?

The Wonders of Nature

2008-10-19T16:18:00.000-05:00

This weekend while cleaning the house, I came across an incredible phenomenon--a beautiful spiral attached to the outside of one of the upstairs windows. They appear to be some type of egg. What is truly remarkable is the the oval part you see here is elevated from the window--attached to the window only by the 'thread' attached to them. My husband did a little research on the Internet; says he thinks these are the eggs of a 'black fly.' I'm not sure though--I know that there are awesome science teachers out there than will know what these are...

Please leave me a comment or two if you know...I'd like to know. Better yet, snag these pics and post them around, if you don't know. Just be sure to send the knowledge base here so that I can learn!

The more I look at these pictures, the more I am awestruck by the beauty and wonder of nature...the symmetry, the cycles, the ebbs and flows-they are all marvelous and beautiful to me.

I Want Candy!!

2008-10-18T14:53:00.006-05:00

I saw Chris Brogan's twit about The Candy Lab...I just couldn't resist...guess I am bored for a Saturday afternoon! Here's the link to my creation...

Estie's Candy Lab Creation

Make Your Voice Heard and Our Students Win!

2008-10-13T17:05:00.005-05:00

Right now in the great state of Texas there is a debate raging...one over recommendations for a uniform GPA calculation. Dr. Paredes, Commissioner of Higher Education, has made some rather disparaging statements with regard to CTE courses and the uniform GPA. You and I know that CTE courses are designed to challenge students and prepare them for both college and career. Moreover, students that participate successfully in CTE courses are better prepared to compete in today's global marketplace.

Below is the text of a letter sent by Robin Painovich, who is the Executive Director of the Career & Technology Association of Texas. I would request that you contact Dr. Paredes and voice your concern...we cannot allow our CTE courses to be relegated to the proverbial 'back seat.' Our students deserve better!

Text of letter begins here:

Commissioner Paredes,

This note is to respectfully request that all career and technical education (CTE) courses be included in the uniform GPA calculation and increased weight be provided for CTE courses offered for dual or articulated credit.

In our meeting last week, you suggested the discussion be framed in the context of college readiness, acknowledging that career and college readiness are one in the same. Yet when discussing CTE, you stated that CTE courses are “largely irrelevant” to studies in a four year university. In fact, just the opposite is true. Additionally, there are a host of CTE courses that count for credit at two year community and technical colleges and transfer up to degree programs in four year universities.

By not including CTE courses, even our brightest students will have no incentive to enroll in challenging college level courses like Engineering, Accounting, Drafting for Architecture, Medical Terminology and will instead enroll in courses that will contribute to a higher GPA for the purposes of college admission. Incidentally,
Engineering courses in the Project Lead the Way program are CTE courses that
articulate for credit at Texas State University, Texas Tech and University of Texas at Tyler from 32 Texas school districts. Several CTE courses in the Hospitality and Tourism cluster articulate directly to the University of Houston’s world-renowned hotel and restaurant management degree program. Through local articulation agreements between colleges and districts, there may be even more CTE courses accepted for credit at two and four year institutions that we are unaware of at the state level.

As you may be aware, districts incorporate college level coursework into CTE courses to help students prepare for studies in higher education and earn college credit through dual or articulated credit. If four year universities were more familiar with CTE course offerings, content and curriculum, additional articulation agreements would manifest.

You also stated that the arts should be included in the calculation, allowing some enrichment courses to be included to the exclusion of others for the purposes of
predicting success in pursuing a baccalaureate degree. CTE courses in clusters such as Manufacturing, Information Technology, Business Management, Finance and many more are considered enrichment courses that fulfill required credits in the Recommended High School Plan, just like enrichment courses in Fine Art.

CTE courses are rigorous, include academics and provide relevance for academic studies. The State Board of Education is currently revising K-12 CTE TEKS and incorporating college readiness standards into CTE courses.

Including CTE courses and dual and articulated CTE courses for increased weight would provide an incentive for students to pursue college level coursework in high
school. Including CTE in the calculation would support the state’s effort to prepare students to enter college and the workforce. Including CTE would more fully advance the goals of Closing the Gaps.

Again, I ask that all career and technical education (CTE) courses be included in the
uniform GPA calculation and that additional weight be provided for CTE courses offered for dual or articulated credit.

Kind regards,

Robin Painovich

A special hearing regarding this issue is scheduled for October 22 at Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. The public comment period ends October 22. All comments should be submitted to Natalie Coffey, Senior Program Director, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, TX 78711.

Please make your voice heard...our students deserve the best we can offer them and CTE courses are part of that rigor.

Opinions Anyone?

2008-10-12T09:06:00.004-05:00

This past summer I was introduced to the world of Web2.0 via online PD sponsored by my district. The experience has unleashed the veracious reader in me (which had been hibernating for some time now). I don't believe that I blog as often as I should, but read others blogs, articles, etc. for several hours a day (it's invigorating!).

This morning while perusing my Google Reader, I came across a post on Teacher Lingo. The poster wants to know how teachers 'feel' about conveying their personal beliefs/opinions to their students...

I don't...I've seen too many teachers make life miserable for students that don't share that teacher's convictions with regard to...well..whatever--politics, religion, social issues...you name it. I believe that it's more important to get students researching and forming their own opinions based on their own convictions.

What about you? What's your take on this topic?

Get It? Got It! Good!!

2008-09-30T20:31:00.003-05:00

I love the Internet. I love Web2.0. I love the opportunity to connect with other people, in other places. Most of all I love learning from people (who are obviously smarter than the average bear).

Strolling through my Google Reader this evening I came accross a post on Doug Johnson's "Blue Skunk Blog." In his latest post, he references a post from Seth Godin's blog regarding the "Get To vs. The Have To."

Great stuff. Read my response on Doug's blog...and yes...it's REALLY how I 'feel' about teaching!

Response posted here for your reading pleasure:

OMG...I love this post! Let's see...I 'get to' teach kiddos (well, they're high school, but still kiddo in my book). I get to learn new technologies that I in turn get to teach the kiddos. I get to sponsor a Junior Achievement Company Program that prepares students for both college and career (The kiddos in this extracurricular activity are just incredible...). I get to teach Sports Marketing...well...it' just rocks! I get to teach
computer applications and other tekkie stuff...
I get to do a lot of 'things' as a high school teacher that I NEVER got to do when I was in business/industry. I get to make a difference in the lives of young people...my [rayer is that the difference I make is a positive one and prepares them adequately for a VERY compeititve marketplace.

Probably the only thing I HAVE to do is a bunch of seemingly needless paperwork. So, if I won the lottery, I would teach for free and hire someone to do the 'seemingly needless paperwork' for me so I could continue to do the 'get to' stuff.
Thanks for a great post!!
September 30, 2008 Estie Cuellar

And Heeeeere's Estie!!

2008-09-29T19:09:00.005-05:00

This year some of my students and I are privileged to be a part of the Flat Classroom Project. One of our first assignments is to record an audio introduction.

Here's my audio introduction to this year's Flat Classroom Project. Enjoy!!!

Can You Say 'Mentor?' I Knew You Could...

2008-09-28T20:12:00.003-05:00

This semester I have been awarded the privilege of mentoring a wonderful colleague as she completes her student teaching. It's a daunting, yet invigorating venture.

Kim is wonderful. She has her undergrad in Marketing, an MBA, and spent a number of years in banking. She left business/industry because she feels a calling to teach high school (read my bio, sounds a lot like me, huh?) and make a real difference in the lives of young people.

I'm really enjoying working with Kim. She's bright, witty, thinks creatively, and interacts well with the students. She's also very detailed...more so than me. I'm more of a big picture person and sometimes I miss little details (like misspelled words on my lesson plans for example). I have to really concentrate and recheck things to be sure I don't embarrass myself whenever I post my lesson plans or update my teacher website. Kim seems to be a natural at catching those things...kudos, Kim!!

This semester my Business Education Independent Study class is participating in the Flat Classroom 2008 Project. I just began learning Web2.0 this past summer, so I'm really 'stoked' about participating in this...I feel a little inadequate, but nonetheless very excited. It's also given my an opportunity to teach Kim about Web2.0, thus strengthening my own skills. I know that Kim has joined Twitter (sure wish I could access Twitter at school--makes it hard to keep up with people since I can't!!) I'm hoping that she'll start blogging soon, too.

In any case, Kim sees the immense benefits to incorporating Web2.0 into her curriculum, so I have no doubt that when she begins teaching full time, she'll utilize blogs, wikis, nings...all kinds of great stuff that will create those relevant connections students need to make meaning and internalize the material.

Oh, and we've already had our talk about Wong...read Tom's awesome post on this for more information. She had an entire class on the "Wong Way" of 'doing things.'

I digress. I'm hoping to help Kim connect with some of the educators I've been introduced to since beginning my journey into Web2.0 this summer. If you have the chance, look her up on Twitter (her user name is kaclayton) and introduce yourself...welcome her to teaching!

On With the Show...

2008-09-27T21:21:00.004-05:00

The last three weeks have been a tornado of activity. When I saw the date of my last post I could hardly believe that almost a month has gone by since I blogged.

I hadn't planned on Ike...I hadn't planned on my father being ill. It's weird how life can hit you so hard, so fast, and so furious. Just when you think you've hit a groove...BAM!...life throws you a curve.

I have felt SO guilty about not posting...with everything going so crazy around me these past few weeks, I kept telling myself that I would get caught up with my blog, with reading others blogs and newsfeeds 'tomorrow.' The problem is...if I'm not careful, tomorrow will never come.

Yes, 'things' have been absolutely nuts. To tell you the truth, I'm not sure if or when 'normal' will return...but, I do know this: life is too short to feel guilty about this (not blogging). I'm back and I'm ready to carve out the time I want to make my blog rich, meaningful, and worthy.

It's good to be back...

Goin' the Distance

2008-08-31T17:27:00.009-05:00

I watched "Rocky" with my 10-year old son this afternoon--he had never seen the movie before. He was captivated by the story of an underdog who dared to take on 'the champion.' How audacious for someone like Rocky to take on someone like Apollo Creed...

...Everyone loves a hero and Rocky is no different. For better or worse the character of Rocky Balboa epitomises the dream of success and the hope that lives in us all. You know, if you work hard enough, you can break through and achieve your dream...Rocky achieved his dream...he went the distance--he trained to go the distance...not to win--but to 'go the distance.' And, in going the distance, he won.

I think, in a way, the key to life is having the fortitude to 'go the distance,' Life throws us punches, jabs, hooks, and body shots. What distinguishes between those who win and those who lose is the ability to stay with the fight--to 'go the distance'. That's the message I want to impart to both my sons and my students, "Stay with the fight, no matter what...fall down 5 times, get up 6."

I found a short video sums up my mantra..."Go the distance...no matter what punches life throws at you, be willing to get up and keep moving forward...keep moving forward..."

Steppin' Out

2008-08-29T11:18:00.004-05:00

This first week of school has been very exciting--and VERY busy! I've barely had enough time to breeze through some of my favorite blogs (via my Google Reader), much less create a blog post of my own (how does CoolCatTeacher do it?).

I decided before school started this year that I wanted to incorporate blogs and wikis into my curriculum. And...well...all of my students now have a blog. They will be utilizing their blogs during the course of the year to reflect on what they are learning in class, to research and blog on specific topics related to business/marketing, and to comment on their own topics of interest (and each other's blogs).

I was really unsure of just how things would go, but aside from a few forgotten passwords and typos that prevented login, things went pretty smooth. In fact, most of the students have already made two entries into their blogs! I will be spending the next couple of days entering a blogroll into our class wiki (I'm not ready for 100+ students to try and get into the wiki just yet). Until then, I wanted to share a couple of posts that I thought were really good.

Each year I spend some time having my students introduce themselves to the class. It's a great way for students to get to know each other and an opportunity for me to learn their names. This year, I gave the students a specific assignment regarding their introduction (a lesson from Campus Chaos--can't find a website for them). They were to choose a color, a car, and a destination that describes their personality, then blog about it. Using their blog post as a reference, I had them introduce themselves to the class. There were a number of really good posts, but two really captured my attention.

From Desiree R's "One Step at a Time" Blog:

My name is Desiree Robinson aka (also known as) Dezzy by family members. I choose the color PURPLE. I would love a black Infinity going to the beach in Florida because I am very outgoing, and I love to have fun. And just like the beach I am open minded. The characteristics of the beach when some days its full of big waves, like me I can be full of energy. But the beach water can also be calm with small waves, and like me I can be calm and full of thought.

From Catie W's "Catie's Blogg!":

My name is Catie and I choose an isotope green bug headed to Hershey Park, Pennsylvania because I'm sweet and cheerful, love the outdoors and love to have fun!

Awesome, huh? I can hardly wait for next week--and the next--and the next...

Keeping My Fingers Crossed

2008-08-24T19:01:00.008-05:00

I did it. I applied for the Certified Google Teacher seminar that will be held in Chicago on September 24. I thought that maybe I should wait since I am so new to Web2.0 technologies, but after reading the CoolCatTeacher post about the application, I decided to produce my video idea and finish the application process.

Honestly, I wanted to apply ever since I came across the post about the Academy on the Google for Educators site (BTW, I've also seen references to the Academy from Miguel Guhlin, Mark Wagner, and Doyle (among others). I just assumed that because I am new to Web2.0 and live further than 90 minutes from the training site, that my application wouldn't be considered. The CoolCatTeacher (Vicki Davis) said in her post that

"it is worth going through it just to be a part of the teacher resources made available after you go through the course. The networking is phenomenal."

That sold me. I took the idea I had on the 'drawing board' for my video and produced it. I don't own any video equipment, but I consider myself fairly resourceful. If (I mean, WHEN) my application is accepted, I will make it to Chicago on September 24. I'm posting my video here. Watch it and then comment...I want to know what you think.

We're Back!!!

2008-08-15T06:58:00.003-05:00

Yesterday was my first 'official' day back...although, I came back to work this past Monday to get started setting up my lab. It takes a while to arrange all the desks and re-connect all the computers after the custodial staff finishes waxing the floors.

Only this year I was greeted with a crashed server...what fun...the curriculum we use to teach Computer Applications (in Texas we call it BCIS), is server based (no textbook, yeah!). It's wonderful curriculum...I would recommend it to anyone teaching CompApps. I called TPTB right away...they came and picked up the server, but I still don't have it back and I am supposed to conduct teacher training on all the software updates...ummm...today? We'll see what happens!

I've been so busy with setting up my room and dealing with the server issue that I haven't had much time to read through my favorite blogs to discover new nuggets of wisdom--or blog for that matter. So, I came into my classroom very early this morning to update my Google Reader and read through some of my favorites...and post an entry...

Although I enjoyed several posts, one really hit me...I found it on Andrew Meyers' blog...it's about VED Analysis. As a newbie to Web2.0 and its potential to transform my classroom and my teaching, I've found myself a bit overwhelmed by all the (incredible) information out there. Thanks to Mr. Meyers I realized this morning that what's important is to decide what is Vital, Essential, and Desirable for teaching success.

I'm looking forward to all this year will bring!

Standing on the Shoulders of Giants

2008-08-08T07:46:00.003-05:00

The other day I posted about how I approach the first few days of school to set a successful tone for the year. Well, after I posted that I begin contemplating--I've 'met' a number of incredibly successful educators this summer online. I've tagged their blogs/posts on Del.icio.us, added a number of these blogs to my blogroll, and read much of their information on various topics.

What I hadn't done, was read/study how they approach their first days...so...I started searching. Here are some links to some great posts from some great educators and some of their best practices for starting the year out right...

Vicki Davis - Tips for Starting the School Year Right
Todd Seal - Change in Your Classroom
Cal Teacher - Settle Down
Dan Meyer - How I Work

This is just a smattering...check out Teacher Lingo for connections to other educator blogs.

Just Around the Corner from Here

2008-08-06T06:35:00.004-05:00

The summer is drawing to a close; the first day of school is just around the corner from here.

What an incredible summer of learning it has been for me. Thanks to my participation in "23Things," I will return to school with an arsenal of new teaching tools. I'm really excited about this year. I've been staying up late every night for a couple of weeks now contemplating and planning on how/where/when to use all the Web2.0 tools I've learned. I've also thought about how I will start the year--setting the tone (if you will) to ensure an optimal learning environment and experience for my students.

I plan my 'first days' approach each August; however this year I will be mentoring a couple of teachers on my campus (both have about two years experience), so it's especially important to me to help them prepare for a productive and meaningful year.

Here are a few things that I do (and will communicate to them) that really set a great atmosphere for my students:

I always greet my students at the door and introduce myself (it takes a little time, but well worth it)
I utilize a multi-media presentation to introduce myself, the course, expectations, etc...the students enjoy that much more that just a paper/pen syllabus (I post my syllabi on my website and show them how to access it)
I have the students decide on classroom rules/consequences (no more than 5--I make a PPT slide via the LCD projector and place it on the classroom bulletin board for reference)
I have each student introduce himself/herself to the class (they give their name, grade, what they hope to learn from my class, and where they 'see' themselves in 5-10 years)
I take my time with this...if it takes a few days to complete this process (my classes are only 53mins long), then so be it...building relationships with my students is just as important (if not more so) than my curriculum

It's my goal to help both my "mentees" and myself prepare for a great year with our students. I believe that by communicating clear expectations and building solid relationships we can teach our students both the necessary curriculum and interpersonal skills they will need to succeed.

What about you? What can you share with me that will help me (and my mentees) prepare for a terrific year? I would love to hear your suggestions!

A Little "Comic Sans" Relief

2008-08-03T16:04:00.004-05:00

After spending an inordinate amount of time on my last post, I began reading some of the blog posts from my blogroll. I found this video on Ewan McIntosh's edublog and just had to share. Who says that we as educators don't have a sense of humor?
... ... ... ... ...

Okay...the 'newbie' in me couldn't get the video embedded so...click here to see the video and to read Ewan's blog...enjoy!

Twitter v. Plurk: A Newbie Review

2008-08-01T22:20:00.007-05:00

This past summer I completed on online learning experience (via my District) called "23Things." This professional development course was derived (loosely) from 43Things and a Stephen Abram article titled "43Things I Might Want to do This Year" (Information Outlook - Feb 2006). Through this opportunity I learned about a number of Web2.0 tools. In addition to learning how to use these tools, I was challenged to find innovative ways of incorporating them into my classroom/teaching. Two of the tools I was introduced to were Plurk and Twitter.

Both Plurk and Twitter are "free social networking and micro-blogging services that allow users to send updates, which are text-based posts of up to 140 characters in length" (definition quoted from Wikipedia). Let's take a look at each service first and then compare the pros and cons of each...

Plurk:
The user interface for Plurk includes a 'timeline' that lists both your plurks (messages) and those of the people you 'follow.' You can search for people to follow by clicking on the "My Friends" tab at the top of the Plurk window. You can also review "interesting plurkers" by clicking on that navigation button (also located at the top of the Plurk window. Plurk also includes a "Karma" feature that more or less tracks your behavior and activity...the better your behavior/activity the higher your karma--high karma unlocks specials user features, like emoticons and different backgrounds, etc. Here's a picture of the Plurk Window:

Twitter:
The user interface for Twitter displays a 'message list' of all of your twitters (messages) and those of the people you 'follow.' As with Plurk, you can find and follow friends by clicking on the 'Find & Follow' navigation button at the top of the Twitter window. No Karma stuff here...at least I couldn't find anything like that. Here's a picture of the Twitter window:

Comparisons:
Registering: It's really easy (and free) to register for Plurk and Twitter. What's more, you can easily add either of them to your mobile device; a great way to keep up with your friends (colleagues, collaborators, etc).

Adding Friends: When adding friends, both sites allow you to add via email and/or instant messaging forums; however, Twitter will allow you to search by name only. I really like this feature--as a Web2.0 newbie, I want the opportunity to connect with as many teachers as possible. I collected some names from my favorite teacher blog (CoolCatTeacher), from my own Blogroll, and from a YouTube video of this year's Edublogger's conference (click here for video). I then typed those names into the Twitter name search and voila! I found some of the people that I want to both follow and learn from...I can't find that option on Plurk (although it may be there).

Finding/Following Friends: Twitter makes it easier to find/follow friends (JMHO). You can request to follow other people's friends on Plurk, too, but it was difficult to figure that out. It's probably in the Help section somewhere, but I haven't found it. I stumbled across the option while devouring the site.

Add ons: Twitter seems to have a ton of different apps (add ons) available--it will take me a while to get through them all to see which ones are applicable to me. I haven't found any add ons for Plurk, yet.

Conclusion:
Both Plurk and Twitter are easy to use. They each have unique user interfaces and features. Further, they both serve their purpose--for people to network and stay in touch. Unfortunately, Twitter is already blocked by my district and I am sure the Plurk will be blocked soon. Although I can still access them on my mobile device, it sure makes incorporating this type of micro-blogging (via these two services) almost impossible in the classroom.

I would like to see both Plurk and Twitter add a search feature whereby one can search my interest area (or something similar). I want to connect with as many innovative teachers as I can now that I am learning about all that Web2.0 has to offer. For now, I will continue to comb the blogs I have listed on my blogroll (see the area on the right side of my blog titled "News, Sites, and Blogs I Frequent") looking for additional experts to follow (both on my blog and Twitter/Plurk), thus expanding 'my circle of the wise.'

If this is Math, Sign me up!

2008-07-31T21:11:00.005-05:00

I was reading posts on Clay Burell's site and was completely awestruck by a video he had posted there. Seems one Dan Meyer is doing right by his students in how he approaches teaching math. Awesome stuff, Dan...major kudos to you for the work you are doing with students!!

Here's the video:

dy/av : 002 : the next-gen lecturer from Dan Meyer on Vimeo.

Thing #23 - Reflections

2008-07-31T10:45:00.000-05:00

For this Discovery Exercise, I will reflect on my learning experience by answering the following questions...

1. What were your favorite discoveries or exercises on this learning journey? - It's hard to choose! The mashups were a hoot, as was Flickr. On a professional level though, I think I got the most of discovering and expanding my 'circle of the wise.' I will be incorporating blogs, wikis, and nings into my teaching this coming year. I will also take advantage of podcasts and vidcasts to help reach my students in their digital native world.

2. How has this program assisted or affected your lifelong learning goals? I have become proactive in seeking out and learning new technologies that will help me grow as a teacher professional and affect positively the lives of my students. I also am developing a network of experts from which I can glean knowledge...awesome!

3. Were there any take-a-ways or unexpected outcomes from this program that surprised you? I think what surprised me the most is just how easy it is to create podcasts and vidcasts. I was expecting something really technical, but it wasn't. I purchased a microphone, plugged it into my computer, read a little bit of the index on the help areas of Audacity and Photostory (thank you SBISD for providing those tools on our new laptops!!) and then just 'went to town.' I did experience some issues with uploading my vidcast directly to Blogger, so I opted to upload it to TeacherTube and then embed it to my blog from there. Worked fine...

4. What could we do differently to improve upon this program’s format or concept? I'm not sure. The instructions/information listed on the Library2Play blog were easy for me to follow. I did read comments from other blogs though where people struggled in certain areas (like with podcasts and creating avatars). If I were you, I would read carefully the comments from the survey and incorporate the most relevant suggestions into the next round of learning. Just a side note here--I spent WAY more than 18 hours completing the 23Things...

5. If we offered another discovery program like this in the future, would you choose to participate? Absolutely!

6. How would you describe your learning experience in ONE WORD or in ONE SENTENCE, so we could use your words to promote 23 Things learning activities? Phenomenal! 23Things incorporates the 3R's that are necessary to successful learning: Rigor, Relevance, and yes, Relationship! Thanks for an incredibly enriching and rewarding experience!!!

Thing #22 - Nings

2008-07-31T09:25:00.000-05:00

For this Discovery Exercise I surfed through the Ning for Teachers. There's all kinds of stuff there! This ning is an educational community designed to connect teachers. On the site I found Lessons, blogs, a message board...there are even Education Blog Groups that connect high school teachers, tech specialists, administrators, etc. I took the time to join the site...I want an additional opportunity to connect with other teachers.

It looks like Nings are a great way for teachers to collaborate with one another. I can see the business teachers in our District creating a Ning so that we can share Lessons, Lesson Plans, best practices, etc. I am working on a plan right now to present the idea to the other business teachers whenever we return for the fall semester.

I'm lovin' all these new tools!!

Thing #21 Podcasts and Audio Books

2008-07-30T22:10:00.000-05:00

This was a Discovery Exercise was AWESOME!! After reading some others comments and blogs I was a little concerned, but both Audacity and PhotoStory are very easy to use. Our new laptops issued by our District have both programs on them...how cool is that?!? Anyway, I decided to compose a Vidcast about our JA Company Program, WINC at Spring Woods HS. I did have some hiccups with uploading--I couldn't upload it straight to Blogger for some reason (???), so I uploaded it to TeacherTube and have embedded the file from there. Enjoy!!!

p.s. WINC still has a few lamps for sale on our website...click here to purchase one!

Thing #20 YouTube and TeacherTube (part 2)

2008-07-29T22:46:00.001-05:00

Once again, I learned volumes from this Discovery Exercise. For me this exercise was about much more than embedding video into my blog, this exercise forced me to do further research on the people and topics about which I am passionate. Once of the videos that I found was on UStream. It was posted by my (now) favorite teacher blogger, Vickie Davis. It's an interesting discussion with a student regarding Student 2.0.

Live Broadcast by Ustream.TV

The other video I found was on YouTube. This video was shot during the Edublogger's Conference 2008. The content is good, but take special note of who is featured in the video. Their names and websites are sited there. Many of them I have learned about during my participation in the 23Things this summer. I am in the process of tagging these educator's blogs/websites for future reference...my circle of the wise in increasing...

Edit to Post (7/31/2008): When I played the YouTube video through my blog, the names and websites of the 'wise' in the video did not appear. If you want to copy their names/sites from the video directly from YouTube, click here.

Thing #20 YouTube and TeacherTube (part 1)

2008-07-29T22:17:00.001-05:00

Okay...before I begin my official post on this thing, I wanted to post this video that The Library2Play blog had on their site. This video, called Three Steps to 21st Century Learning is produced by Jackie Halaw, owner of the TeacherHacks Blog. I am amazed at all the information that I've been able to glean as a part of the 23Things project. Enjoy this video...I'll be back with the rest of my Thing #20 post shortly.

Thing #19 - Web 2.0 Awards List

2008-07-28T21:38:00.001-05:00

What a list! This discovery exercise challenged me to find a 'useful tool' from the Web 2.0 Awards List--a tool that I can incorporate into my classroom. I have been seeing Twitter and Digg icons everywhere, so I had to investigate those sites...I joined both! However, I don't know the District policy on accessing those sites, so I am not sure if I would be able to incorporate them into my curriculum.

LinkedIn, on the other hand, probably is not blocked by the firewall. This site would be a great way of exposing my Junior Achievement students to business professionals that could answer various questions for them. I joined the site (big surprise) so that I could surf through its offerings. There's an area there where you can ask questions and professionals with the knowledge/expertise in said area can answer you. This may be a great tool for assisting my students that are members of our Junior Achievement Company Program.

With that said...if I am able to access Digg through our firewall, I believe that it would be a great asset to my Marketing class. The students would be able to 'dig' articles related to various aspects of marketing (novel idea!).

I will be on campus tomorrow working on grants with another business teacher...I will try to access Digg and Twitter within the district...I'll report back to you all on my progress...

Thing #18 - Online Productivity Tools

2008-07-28T19:51:00.000-05:00

I am very familiar with Google Docs...I spent some time collaborating with a colleague a year or so ago and we decided to use Google Docs to share our information. It worked fine for us. I've never used OpenOffice...but...I didn't want to download and install it on my computer--so--I found some video tutorials via Technorati. I watched the tutorials and read the blog reactions. Most agree that OpenOffice is a viable (not to mention affordable) option to the MSOffice Suite. While I agree, I admit that I am partial to the standard software version. Personally, I believe the choice to be a matter of personal preference as both options meet the need.

Thing #17 - Rollyo

2008-07-28T19:11:00.000-05:00

Registering on Rollyo (as with most of the sites I've visited during this experience) was easy. I created a Searchroll and then placed a widget on my blog for searching (it's located just below my profile). You can view my Searchroll in the widget...it's called "Estie's Gifts" and it centers around educational sites and blogs. I think I will go back and create a few other Searchrolls for other topics like weather and travel.

Thing #16 - Wikis

2008-07-28T17:20:00.001-05:00

Wow! Exploring Wikis was really fun! I can see how useful a wikispace could be in my classroom. I require my students to work collaboratively on most of their projects. By creating a wikispace, teams would be able to share research, ideas, add and edit content without having to email or even meet together after school.

The teams that we recruit for BPA competitions will find wikis indispensable. There's an enormous amount of research that goes into the Small Business Management and Global Marketing Teams (among others), so my collaborating via a wiki, the students can communicate information with one another more easily and effectively. I can hardly wait to use this!!

Here's another tool that I can incorporate into my lessons that will help students stay engaged in their learning! Yeah!

Thing #15 - Web 2.0 - Library 2.0 (Classroom 2.0)

2008-07-28T14:20:00.000-05:00

I was blown away by the video A Vision of Students Today (the video is beneath this post) from TeacherTube. I wish that every teacher I know would not only view this video, but internalize its message. I left Corporate America to teach...I desire earnestly to reach students help prepare them for both college and career. I understand that to reach them and for them to truly learn I have to meet them 'where they are.'

Kids today are in sync with technology...it's practically in their DNA. They are proficient multi-taskers. They cannot be reached in a one-dimensional classroom. I understand this.... The vast majority of my lessons are interactive. I play music in my classroom everyday. I make sure that my students conduct Internet research and complete online activities. This year, I will incorporate blogging to replace notebook journals as the students' reflection piece after completing lessons.

Of the 5 perspectives listed in the Discovery Exercise for this 'Thing,' I enjoyed (and could relate to) Dr. Wendy Shultz' article, To a Temporary Place in Time... most. Dr. Schultz not only embraces the changes, but also looks to the future with excitement. Libraries are morphing (or mutating) into interactive learning environments to meet the needs of their patrons--shouldn't our classrooms do the same?

Thing #14 Technorati and Tags

2008-07-28T07:06:00.000-05:00

I began using Technorati while completing the Discovery Exercise for Thing #9. However, I did not begin adding blogs and tags until now.

I like Technorati. I have all of my favorite blogs on my Google Reader, but am in the process of adding them to my Technorati site. I like the fact that Technorati connects bloggers to bloggers. It's a great way to create community. I have begun connecting with others who share similar interests with me. Although I can find other teachers via tags (tags are awesome!), I would like to see Technorati add an Education folder to it's Blog Directory. I think it would make it a little easier to find other teachers and their blogs.

I added some Technorati widgets to my site. The button at the top, right side of my page allows people to add my blog to their Technorati favorites. The horizontal ticker widget at the bottom of my page displays a real-time feed of what users are searching for on Technorati, right now.

I spent a fair amount of time on this Thing. I wanted to be certain that I understood fully how Technorati works. I plan on having my students create blogs this year rather than keeping a paper/pen journal. I will be able to add my students' blogs to my Technorati site. That will make it really easy for me to check/grade their 'journals' as they reflect on their lessons in my class.

Thing #13 Tagging/Discovering Del.icio.us

2008-07-25T15:15:00.000-05:00

I enjoyed discovering del.icio.us. I also explored Furl and Mag.nolia, but del.icio.us was by far my favorite. It was really easy to register for an account and import bookmarks from my IE7 browser. I watched the Del.icio.us tutorial, but really got just as much out of the teacher tube tutorial on the Library2Play site and it wasn't as long.

The discovery exercise for this "Thing" asks several questions...

1. Can I see the potential of del.icio.us and social bookmarking for research assistance? My answer is both yes and no. Yes, on a professional level. Social bookmarking is a great way of sharing information with my colleagues and helping me research information I may need for a lesson or a unit. No (or rather, 'not so much') on a student level within my lab. Students have a tendency to get bogged down in the plethora in Internet information. While I can see many students utilizing this tool effectively for independent research, I think it would be difficult (although not impossible) to keep them on task in the classroom.

2. How can libraries or classroom teachers take advantage of social bookmarking sites? I think that one of the best applications would be for us to share information. All too often we as teachers tend toward isolation...this may not happen as often with larger departments, but I know that those of us who teach Career and Technology Education courses find that we may be the only teacher on campus who teaches Business Law, Business Management, Marketing, or Accounting. Having access to other teachers' expertise would be incredibly beneficial.

Now that I have an account on Del.icio.us, I will most definitely research for others from whom I can glean scholarly advice.

Thing #12 - Creating Community Through Comments

2008-07-13T07:45:00.000-05:00

Ummm...I've been commenting since I started my 23Things. I've been utilizing forums for some time now, so I am familiar with posting etiquette. With that said, I really enjoyed reading the commenting post from CoolCatTeacher. She's gives some great advice there (although I'm having problems remembering the html code to create hyperlinks in comments). I really appreciated her information regarding "Darth Commenter." I, too have been a victim of DC a time or two...it's not fun, but you can't take it personally.

Of the blogs I have found/studied so far, the CoolCatTeacher blog is the best (JMHO). I will most definitly utilize the information on her blog to assist me in my classroom (lots of great information there!)

In addition, as I find other terrific blogs on which I post, I will add them to my blogroll for you all to visit as well!!

Thing #11 - LibraryThing

2008-07-11T21:52:00.001-05:00

At first I was thinking that this site would be only enjoyable to Librarians, but I was wrong. Joining LibraryThing was really easy...I enjoyed searching for and adding books to my library. It was also easy to add the list to my blog...While I was searching for groups, I thought it would be great to incorporate some of these groups into my business classes.

Unfortunately, most of the groups I clicked on were either inactive or deleted. I won't give up though. I think that introducing my students to LibraryThing will help them seek out and (hopefully) read books that are relevant to their future careers.

Thing #10 - Online Image Generator

2008-07-11T18:43:00.000-05:00

I had fun with this 'thing.' I made a cartoon from Comic Strip Generator, wrote in the sand on Image Chef, and created a tennis ball smilie on Happy Face Generator. All of the sites were fun!
Here are my masterpieces!!!

Thing #9 - Useful Blogs/Newsfeeds

2008-07-11T15:39:00.000-05:00

It's official--I'm addicted to RSS!! I've been searching, subscribing, and reading more in the past 24 hours than I did for the past two weeks! It's great!

Focus...Focus...
1. I used several methods to find feeds...probably the easiest was to just search from my Google Reader. I also went to the sites that I already had bookmarked in my browser and added subscriptions from there.

2 and 3. I liked the interface on Technorati better than Syndicat8 or Topix. But that's just personal preference...none were difficult to navigate. I joined Technorati and 'claimed' my blog there. I really like the layout and navigation there.

4. I found several useful blogs...two of my finds came from the CoolCatTeacher blog. I really enjoyed surfing through Victoria Davis' site. I believe that I will learn much from her...she's is now a part of my circle of the wise.

5. Of course, I also used Google to just google stuff by keyword... :-)

Thing #8 - RSS Feeds and Readers

2008-07-11T06:39:00.000-05:00

Okay...I stayed up way too late last night organizing my Google Reader. Talk about addictive!!! This is great!

Here are my thoughts about RSS Feeds and Readers:
1. Awesome! I've been seeing the little orange icon for some time now, but hadn't taken the time to find out about RSS...Now, the news and blog updates will come to me! That's very cool...

2. How can I use this technology in my classroom? I will be teaching a new section this year that revolves around business/entrepreneurship. I can have my students set up a reader that will include information on writing business plans, organizing financials, marketing basics, etc. With the District firewall, I don't know if we'll be able to include blogs, but they can still utilize the Reader to help them with information and research.

3. I'm not that familiar with the library angle of things, but I would assume that librarians could use RSS Feeds and Readers to help students with research and obtaining scholarly information on authors, subjects, etc.

4. I set up a public page. I will continue to monitor and share relevant information with others as I obtain it...

Thing #7 - Cool Google Tools

2008-07-09T23:10:00.001-05:00

Okay...now this is something I already know about and use A LOT! I have an iGoogle page that includes news, a calendar, NatGeo photos, etc. I've also used Google Docs on a number of occasions--Google Docs are a great way to share all kinds of documents.

I've also played with Google Earth...it's really fun to search for different places around the globe. And, I have a Google group (private) for my Junior Achievement students at school. We're just now getting it organized, but I believe it will help us to communicate more effectively.

The one aspect that I wasn't familiar with was Google Notebook. It took me a few minutes to figure it out, but I like it. It will make Internet research much easier to organize. In fact, part of my curriculum requires several of my classes to conduct Internet research. I think introducing my students to Google Notebook would really help them organize and catagorize their research.

Thing #6 - Mashups and 3rd Party Sites

2008-07-09T22:57:00.000-05:00

Honestly, I had a little trouble following the Wikipedia article about mashups; however, once I started exploring, it was a lot of fun!

Unless I am reading something wrong, the Mappr has changed. Flickr now has a way to place your photo uploads on a map...since I had already posted some photos on Flickr I used the opportunity to attach those photos to the location where they were taken (pretty cool stuff).

Of all the mashups, I enjoyed BigHugeLabs the most! I created a magazine cover, a puzzle, and a trading card. If you visit my Flickr site, you can see them all. I think that I could incorporate some of this into my classroom. It would be fun for the students to create trading cards that hightlight the computer skills they learn in my class...or create posters with their team names on them (I use lots of cooperative learning in my classes).

Great stuff!

Thing #5 - Flickr

2008-07-09T21:41:00.001-05:00

OMG! This site was SO much fun! Flickr is incredibly user friendly. I posted some pictures on the site just to see how things would show. Take a look! It was easy to add tags and organize my photos.

The site has a lot to offer...I really enjoyed surfing through the different groups...I even joined one. I love pictures of Houston's skyline, so I joined a group that specializes in posting pictures strictly of our gorgeous skyline (I don't think that we get our props for our downtown area). Here's one of my favorite pictures that I found there.

Also...from what I can tell, libraries are using Flickr for all kinds of things...several of the groups I found are using the site to chronicle the libraries in their area...I thought that was neat.

I'm Back!!!

2008-07-09T19:36:00.001-05:00

Okay...family obligations pulled me away for a few weeks, but now I am back! I've begun exploring Flickr and will be back to post about my experiences VERY soon!

Thing #4

2008-06-22T20:39:00.000-05:00

I registered my blog with the Library2Play captains...now...I am ready to arise, go forth, and learn!

Thing #3

2008-06-22T20:22:00.000-05:00

I registered and created both my blog and my avatar. Creating the blog was really easy; it was a lot like creating a web page...something I know a little about :-). In fact, I named my blog after my own website...but the gifts and treasures I have are more than my website...they are my family, my friends, my students, and my teaching. All I am blessed with I consider "gifts" and "treasures."

The avatar was also a lot of fun to create. I plan on going back to Yahoo Avatars and creating other favorite avatars so that I can change them on my blog according to the time of the year, my mood, etc. It took me a minute to figure out the instructions on exporting my avatar, but that's okay...I learned in the process!!

Thing #2

2008-06-22T20:14:00.000-05:00

I really enjoyed the online presentation regarding life-long learning and life-long learners. The 7 1/2 habits helped to get me on track. Of the habits, I must admit that having confidence is probably the one I struggle with the most. That may sound odd coming from someone with a graduate degree, but it's true. With that said, I believe that completing the learning contract will help...

The habit that comes easiest for me is using technology to my advantage. That's why I am SO excited to be a part of this online learning opportunity! Some of the technologies that I will learn about this summer are new to me...my goal is to learn about them and then incorporate the appropriate technologies into my classroom this fall to enhance the learning and active participation of my students.

I have committed to checking in on my progress once every 2 weeks...I think that will help keep me on track!

Thing #1

2008-06-22T20:11:00.001-05:00

I read the background information on the Summer Library2Play program. I must admit I am not familiar with some of the technologies (like Flickr) and am looking forward to learning new things!!!