Tech Time vs. Report Cards

Since early December we have not been able to hold our regular Wednesday Tech Time workshops. We had an Artist-in-Residence that took most of our attention last month, along with ELA assessment training. And now...report card writing.

DLC participation seems to be closely tied to Tech Time. Teachers really want the additional support as they branch out and try something new. They report that they miss Tech Time and are anxious to get back at it. Me too!

Job-alikes

I'm feeling energized after today's job-alike workshops. I was fortunate to work with Rob Lord on the Photobooth/iPhoto session. I had the fun job--to introduce Photobooth, provide some ideas on using it in the classroom and then letting teachers loose to try it out. Like a photobooth at a carnival, we were amused by the effects and different backgrounds available.

Rob followed with a wonderful introduction to iPhoto. He had a nicely detailed step-by-step handout that will be a valuable resource. Although I've used iPhoto for several years, Rob had many new tricks up his sleeve. I learned that I can create multiple libraries in iPhoto, and how to view my photos in a full screen sequence. One of the nicest things about the presentation was being able to see Rob's photographs. He is a talented photographer and shared many interesting shots. It's nice to get to know him and he is a great addition to the technology team. I also am really enjoying getting to know the teachers from the other buildings and working with them. Such nice folks and talented teachers. The feedback was positive, and I'm looking forward to the next session.

Pandora

I was introduced to Pandora a couple of years ago. I really like having the ability to create different stations to meet my mood, and to fine tune my choices with a thumb up or down. The Music Genome project is pretty impressive.
I would use Pandora more in the LC as ambient music, but Debbie has concerns about streaming and bandwidth, so I use it occasionally. Using music in the classroom is such an effective way to change the tone or draw attention to a topic.
We played mariachi music as a class entered the LC to kickoff a study of Mexico and it was great!

Strike up the iPads

Vimeo is also a great site for videos. Sounds of the season, played on some our favorite tools:

North Point's iBand from North Point Web on Vimeo.

A fave

This is a favorite--students love it and it really sticks with you. I've found that kids enjoy the Dewey Decimal System--it's fun, it makes sense and it organizes your world. Rock on Melvil!

Using Video in the LC

I haven't had much luck with Watchknow finding subjects related to information literacy. I'm sure there is a lot there for teachers of other subjects, but what I looked at seemed a bit dated and lack-luster. I find the interface cumbersome. I want new and shiny. Off to YouTube for me! There is so much available (for free!) that it is just hard to believe. I use it to find book trailers, author interviews, and info lit topics. Tons of curriculum content as well.

I'm a fan of TED--amazing and inspiring videos for personal growth and professional development.

I've found a short video to be a great way to kick off class. Sometimes after reading a story, I'll share an author interview with students. I think video is really an integral tool in the toolkit.

Google Docs

This week's DLC was a great reminder for me to use Google Docs. They are just so handy when you work on two machines, eliminating the need to email yourself or use a flashdrive. This week I created a Google spreadsheet to track my staff's participation in the DLCs. Quick and easy and there when I need it.

I've used the docs previously in my grad coursework. Classmates used them to compile collaborative library policies and procedures. We also used them for research projects. I think they work very well for that purpose.

I'm hoping that this little taste will whet the appetites of staff and we can use them a bit more instead of firing emails back and forth. I always get lost in the crossfire.