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

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!

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!!!

11.5 More Things: Thing 5-Microblogging

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).