Keeping up with technology and the ideas about using tech in learning and teaching could be a full time job. So many fascinating developments, yet, technology is not THE answer to all the questions regarding teaching and learning. Many insights come from diverse areas and these insights, when built upon, can help us bring vibrance to the entire process. A fascinating view on teaching may be found in an interview with Michael Wesch of Kansas State University.
http://vodpod.com/watch/1206819-who-is-who-interview-with-mike-wesch
While Wesch's style and his work is with large groups, his message is worthy of pondering.

Post lesson plans; find plans?

This is a new site and it welcomes the use of Creative Commons so posters protect their rights to materials. Check it out at http://www.clivir.com/ . I really like the clean design. Hopefully, the work on the site will be up to the design and planning. Perhaps we all should post a plan or two to help them get started.


Need research tools? Asking How do I?

A new site may help. Take a look at Digital Research Tools. Often these sites are disappointing, but not DiRT. It provides tools for doing research and much more. The links are impressive. Check it out at http://digitalresearchtools.pbwiki.com/

Want clickers but no $$?

I was talking with colleagues at the CTAP (California Technology Assessment Project) 8 headquartered in the Office of the Kern County Superintendent of Schools. In passing I mentioned how nice it would be to use cell phones for the clicker responses since most of our university students have them as do many high schoolers (pending rules in the school, etc.). There is such an option, with a free level for moderate sized classes. Check it out at http://www.polleverywhere.com/ .

CTAP 8's cool tools

Speaking of CTAP 8, there is a new and growing website including helps for teachers and administrators. The cool tools section lists several great tools and there will be more. A few of these are favorites of mine, so you may also recognize them or add to your list of favorites. (I really like Doodle, for example, as it cuts out a lot of work in setting a meeting date and time.) See http://ctap8.org/html/cooltools.html

Small computers

Some pundits are critical of the "netbooks" but I am very happy with mine. It runs WindowsXP and has a substantial hard drive. At just over two pounds, it is a go anywhere computer. Sure, it is not a substitute for a desktop and it cannot duplicate the work of a several pound, high end laptop. The keyboard is OK and I can type effectively. I can use it in the cramped quarters of an airplane seat or on a commuter bus. The display is bright and the cost is low. Nice option for many.

Enjoy your week. I'll post from time to time and try to provide a tech moment or an insight into learning, teaching, and collaboration.

Penelope Swenson