Monday, January 21, 2013

I joined the #etmooc late and now I am trying to catch up! WOW, a lot of information to process. I have discovered that in this learning experience I link to things I am interested in. I also jot down notes as I listen/read. I just viewed the orientation session and got some great ideas that I can use in the course I teach. I am always looking for ways to push the thinking of pre-service and in-service teachers. I feel obligated to help teacher candidates and practicing teachers use technology intentionally and strategically to support and enhance student learning. I have discovered that the best way to do this is to  expose them to these tools in learning experiences. To support students in being college and career ready, the students must be able to collaborate, take risk, and make their thinking visible. These skills will lift the thinking of all instead of just a few. #etmooc is helping me accomplish my goal!

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

Boundries

My colleague and good friend Stephanie has deemed me the "hyperthinker" because whenever we are in a professional development session I am constantly jotting down questions I would like to continue to think about, quotes I like, thoughts I have about what is being said, connections I am making, ideas I would like to use, and how the ideas will enhance my teaching and student learning. I think this list makes it clear why I have earned the title "hyperthinker". I am not even sure if it is a real word, but I think you get the picture. Participating in MOOC is feeding my curiosity about the unlimited boundaries of learning and helping me to understand the experiences my students have with on-line learning. I am a life-long learner and always looking for opportunities that challenge my thinking and push me forward. I am a teacher educator and a literacy consultant. In my work, I look for opportunities to push teachers' boundries because I believe that boundary pushing is what will lead to enhanced student learning. Oh, by the way, I am a new blogger (which had been hard for me because I am not sure anyone will find what I have to say of value). MOOC will hopefully make the transition doable.