So I have decided to enter the world of blogging. Not something I would have thought of even 30 days ago. But here I am.
Thought I would start with the #10GoodThings that happened to me in 2014. Many are coincidental things that have lead me to where I am.
1) The reality of the teaching profession - I work hard to provide a safe, enriching environment, but without at least a slightly caring environment at home, kids can be broken right down. I had 3 students whose home lives do not reflect at all how they are at school, and that gives me hope they can make it to the other side.
2) First steps - Took my first step into technology by having my students complete podcasts. They were fully engaged and I was able to real a level of learning that was missing from my class.
3) Thank-you government and principal - My principal told me to apply to a group looking to do a pilot project. This lead to a grant to purchase 30 ipads for our intermediate division. This is where the explosion started.
4) New layout - After using technology in a traditionally laid out classroom, I realized changes were needed. After spending the summer thinking and collecting, my room now sports 2 couches, 3 chairs, a flat screen TV and Smartboard.
5) New philosophy - Now with couches I needed to use space differently and started using the cave, campfire and mountaintop model. Lead to interesting class layouts and new thoughts on how to approach activities.
6) Wiping is bad! - Learned that wiping ipads to help clean them up is bad. Many good things have come up including more control over the content on the ipads. But that time will never be recovered.
7) People who think the same - Attended a tech conference that did not really give me new ideas, but sparked me to start trying new things.
8) One new thing - Was introduced to the vLE and am looking forward to implementing this in the near future.
9) Second new thing - Started using Instagram to share anchor charts with students. I have let my parents know that can follow me, but only 1 has. It is such a young person tool. There is often a mad dash to like the pictures I post.
10) Started Tweeting - Found Twitter and a few people in my board. Began following more and more people. This is now my greatest resource for new ideas in my class.
Lots has happened and many more things to come.
Have a good one,
James
