Thing 23

Take a few moments to reflect on your journey. You've covered a lot of material over the past ten weeks. What does it all mean? How has your thinking changed between Thing 1 and Thing 23? Has this program changed how you view the Internet or how view teaching in the digital world? What plans have you made for using these tools in and out of the classroom? How will you continue to learn about Web 2.0 tools? What are your big "take aways" from this experience?

I am so glad I took this online class. I knew that I needed to update myself with Web 2.0 ... and figure out exactly what "Web 2.0" means. I don't claim to have a complete understanding but I now know the possibilities ... and that seems more than half of the battle. I completed all of the "Things" (I had worked with a wiki previously so did not do that section here) although not by the December deadline. Still, it was one of the best learning experiences I've participated in and I will recommend it to colleagues.

As I leave this class I am sobered by the lack of acceptance or knowledge of Web 2.0 in my school system. Our technology is underutilized and ruled by fear of what is out there. Our discussion still focuses more on blocking and filtering than exploring and using. Even though we've had computers for literally 20+ years, our institutional technology "vision" is woefully lacking and outdated. I'm still struggling with how to make these tools and an open attitude more prevalent with my fellow teachers and, most importantly, with the decision makers. To that end, I want to continue this blog and use it to bring ideas, applications, and resources to those who are interested. The sub-title of this blog was "23 Things & Beyond" ... it's time for the "BEYOND" part!