Thing 6

From the list of  Web 2.0 Awards nominees, I chose to explore "Remember the Milk.com".  "Remember the Milk" is an application service provider for web-based task and time-management.  I decided to start using the application, because I can manage tasks from my computer as well as offline.  I thought the site was extremely user-friendly.  I was able to create multiple task lists, so I decided to do so for personal, school, and work tasks.  Very cool!  Users of this application can also tag tasks according to priority level, and choose the method, date, and time for reminders.  Users are also informed of the number of times a given task has been postponed.  This application could definitely be used in a school setting, mainly as a time and task-management tool for teachers.  I have to admit, the cute cow logo and title originally caught my eye...I had to explore.  Try it for yourself! >>>>   http://www.rememberthemilk.com/

Thing 5

I read most of the perspectives give concerning Web 2.0, but a couple stood out to me.  I liked the Wikipedia description, because it helped me understand a little more about the history of Web 2.0 and how it has developed into the amazing part of society that it is today.  "Web 2.0:  A Guide for Educators" was also very informative, and made me realize the full impact that world-wide information and the tools available have on the classroom.  To me, "School 2.0" is the future of education.  We live in a world where the web and all of the information available is a big part of life, even for our children.  I liked the statement that "education must get on board".  Technology is our future, and it is what our children "know".  The idea of sharing information globally, and the availability of gaining this information, and contributing to it, all at our fingertips, is overwhelming to me.  We now have an enormous responsibility to incorporate this into our professional learning and into our classrooms.  The new possibilities for teaching and learning are amazing.  It's hard to imagine that it will grow even more from its current state.  As educators, we must continue learning in this area and utilize the tools available. 

Thing 4

Commenting on blogs helps create a sense of community and interaction between bloggers.  As educators, we will face many similar situations in the classroom.  Through blogging, we can build a network that includes information, advice, suggestion, affirmation, and encouragement.  Through sharing experiences, blogging develops a sense of community, that can strengthen individuals in a personal and professional way and be carried over into our classrooms.  One  blog I selected to read (from our group) is Ms. Alicia.  We had a class together last semester, and two this semester.  I commented on her blog to complete part of this assignment, and to let her know I was following her posts.  I also commented on a post on Misty's 23things blog.  She posted about Pandora, and it interested me enough to sign up, so I thought I would share with her.

Thing 3

I feel that a blog will be very useful, both in my teacher education program, and my future classroom.  Blogs are a great tool to collaborate with other students.  If I want feedback on ideas I have for lesson plans, classroom activies, etc., it's nice to know that there are others available that can offer suggestions.  A blog for the classroom could be beneficial in many ways.  Classroom information, such as schedules, assignments, field trips, and current topics could be posted for parents and students to see.  Older students could even respond to conversations on a particular book that is being read in class.  Some individuals may feel more comfortable blogging than speaking up in class.  Blogging can also allow teachers and students to connect with others in different states, or even countries, to gain more perspective on a topic.  I'm looking forward to utilizing this tool, both now and with my future students!

Thing 2

I have always enjoyed reading friends' blogs, but never felt like I had time to maintain one of my own.  So, I was secretly happy that blogging was a requirement for this class.  Creating the blog wasn't too difficult for me, other than a few avatar issues I finally figured out.  My blog is pretty simple, but as I get a little braver, I will experiment more with the different layouts and designs.  I chose my posting name to keep it easy.  My students have always called me Ms. Katrina, so I decided to stick with that name.  My avatar somewhat looks like me, although I decided to keep any grey out of the hair color. Green is my favorite color, so I chose that as the color of my attire, and the background is a classroom (that's a given).  Overall, I enjoyed creating my blog.  I'm officially part of the blogging world!  Now, excuse me while I figure out how to register....= )

Thing 1

After viewing the online tutorial, "Seven and 1/2 Habits of Highly Successful Lifelong Learners", it was easy to quickly identify the habits that are easy and difficult for me.  I struggle the most with using technology to my advantage.  Don't get me wrong, once I force myself to learn about new technology, I love the results.  The problem is, it seems that as soon as I've mastered a new skill in the techno-world, there is a new one to replace it.  I guess I feel like I'm always a step behind.  That being said, I know that it is necessary to continuously learn the new components of technology, and I realize the importance of using it to enhance the classroom.  The amount of information and tools available to educators is amazing, and the ability to collaborate with others is a huge benefit of this habit.  The easiest habit for me is teaching/mentoring others.  Teaching and helping others has always been natural for me, even from a young age.  This characteristic led me to pursue and complete my undergraduate degree in social work.  I enjoy helping others identify their strengths and working with them to reach their goals.  I look forward to teaching and mentoring my students in the classroom.