Thing #8 - Read Read Reader

All the information in one place and more. I do have one problem with Reader, there is not enough space on the home page for all of the feeds that I want to read!!! Reader can be used in the classroom by having students blog what they have learned set it up as an RSS feed then have each student (and the teacher) pull that information to their Reader. Fun Fun Fun!!!

Thing #7 - Ga Ga Over Google

Google Calendar - I love it. The coolest things that I found in Google Calendar is that you can "drain" all of the information off of it into iCal. iCal is the calendar that I use on my Mac. Now I can create a school calendar and when I get home all of that info is on my home calendar. I also found out how to include the calendar in a blog. I didn't include it here, but I do know how.

Google Document - Bottom line. My Mom and I worked on a document together and she lives 1,000 miles away. Wow!!!

Thing #6 - Mashups = Motivation

Student Motivation

It will be very exciting to use the trading card maker for student motivation. When a student does well on a test or quiz it is now possible to make a card for them. The card can be taken home collected, even traded with other students. I don't even have to use their picture, maybe a gold star or some other symbol that represents excellence!!!

Teacher Motivation

The motivator gives you the opportunity to motivate students as well as teachers. We all know that we can all use a pat on the back every so often.....

Thing #5 - Flickr

This is a really cool photo! I found it on Flickr and would love to use it in my math class! Check it out, soccer ( kids love it) and the net makes the coordinate plane!!! Wow!!!

Thing #2 7.5 Habits

This was a very interesting "Thing". I have preached all of the 7.5 habits but have not taken the time to look at them as they relate to me. The habit that I do the best is number three - View problems as challenges. I actually look forward to the problems that arise in situations so that I can try and find the solutions. I have come to the realization that problem solving is the key to a successful teaching career. I'm not very good at creating a toolbox. I use all of the resources that I have access to, but I do not always have them right at my disposal. Great Activity!!! 

Breaking Down Traditional Walls

What a great opportunity for educators!!! Pushing us to embrace technology that our students have always known. Many years ago I came up with the saying "Breaking down traditional walls and replacing them with infinite planes." as a way to visualize our goal as a Technology Applications Department. We have now adopted the saying in our Math Department. I think that it is a wonderful way to see the new face of education.