Ms. Frazzled

December 2011

2011-12-02T08:37:00.000-06:00

As I sit to write this post, I am exhausted with the reading from this week....so much out there about Screen Time, App Gap, the need for physical fitness and of course student testing. It is hard to get the balance in your child's life - time for sports, time for music lessons, and time to just relax...BALANCE is the key. No matter what article I read about screen time - the common denominator is - all screen time needs to be counted. I am watching the students in fifth grade make wonderful book trailers. They are spending time looking for the perfect music and effects. They are also infront of the screen a lot...but the conversations between the students are most interesting and insightful and the evaluation of the work is intense. How can you not encourage students take time to produce amazing film and video that communicate their knowledge? But we also know that any elementary students should also be on the playground running and developing motor skills (without the motor skills, how can they manipulate a mouse?) It almost seems like what came first or what needs to be most important. The next article talked about app gap....the idea that children with technology are far ahead of the children without. Schools are doing their best for app gap by having technology available at school and in flexible time and arrangements. (Rummel Creek library is open before school and during lunch/recess every day.) As if all of the technology is not enough...you also need to make sure your children eat well, get enough sleep and have some type of physical exercise as well as try to get Boy/Girl scouts and religious training all outside of the hours of school. Bless you parents for trying to get it all done! No wonder our students are over scheduled and over tired. Read some of the linked articles above and hopefully you will gleam some information to help your children succeed in life...and possibly not be overwhelmed!

Surving the first week of school

2011-08-30T14:51:00.000-05:00

Well, it's Tuesday of the second week of school and I'm still breathing. Things have been moving fast and furious for these past few days. If technology would cooperate...things would be great...thank goodness for students that can problem solve and see the forest for the trees. My lunch bunch is already back and creating movies....so even lunch is loud...which is great! Except for the fact that I am reading the calendar, it doesn't feel like we ever left...the students and teachers have just picked up where we left off from May. The schedule is running just like always and I can't seem to get away from school before five....perhaps next week! But it's great getting back into a routine. Check out the Rummel Creek Learning Commons page for activities to support the students learning!

iPhone!

2011-08-01T21:51:00.002-05:00

I am trying to get into the 21st century personally. I've been pushing all of the technology at RCE...but never did anything at home. After a week in Austin with NO internet, Limited e-mail (inbetween meetings), and NO computers....I decided it was time to come into the technology rich environment at home. My daughter and I have spent the last two hours trying to make the settings work...she's downloaded all kinds of apps...I'm a little behind...too many choices on the settings. The one downside is..I'll probably work 24/7...and I am already nearly there! Life is so fun. Watching my daughter light up as she found more apps to try was fun...We've really changed her this summer....a MacBook Pro and an iPhone! What a change from the dell....here comes grad school!

Last few days before back to full time...hard to believe how fast the summer flew by...feels like I didn't get too much done!

REEP (Rice Education Entrepreneur Program)

2011-07-20T09:01:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I spent the day at RICE University listening to some great speakers. Now I have a lot of reading to do. Rick Hess has made me really think about what I am doing....I've got to spend a little more time on his website/blog. We also listened to two technology specialists - I was so glad to see that we are moving in the right way...sometimes you think that you have just joined a FAD...but technology is not just a FAD, but rather a tool to deliver content to students. Just need to make sure that it's not all about the gadgets....I think I'm past that...need to let my brain gel around the information and thoughts I heard...need to stay up to date!!!!

Journey Through the 11 Tools

2011-07-08T11:42:00.002-05:00

I am so impressed with the Rummel Creek staff....they are working hard to get to the tools. The best part is watching the teamwork to get them done. I am hoping that we will continue to work as a team to move forward with the students. I think that next year will be an explosion of learning both with and without technology. I just finished writing on blogs...it took me several hours as so many had worked hard these past two days....YEAH!
The questions I am getting now are more on what to do not how to do...which shows tremendous growth. I think the journey is going well...not without a few gliches...but what would a journey be without a few hitches!

PBS Visit

2011-07-01T21:58:00.002-05:00

Today I was invited to the Houston PBS station for a luncheon in honor of the Innovative Educator Award -Ann King and I spent a few hours learning and sharing. It was a fun afternoon that included a tour of the TV station and the Radio stations. Sooooo cool. I took tons of photos to share with the students. Although our RCE studio is on a much SMALLER scale, the way we do things is very similar to the real world. At least I know that what I share with the children is correct and goes along with what they would do at at real station.
PBS was wonderful - our discussion was lively and exciting. The luncheon was amazing. The people we met brought us new ideas and things to look in to. It's nice to be a partner with such a knowledgable group of people who are looking out for what they can provide for our students.
My mind is full of new ideas and things to try. I even have a few thoughts for the studio for next year (look out new crew members....we're going upscale!) I wish I had taken notes to remember it all!

General Observation

2011-06-21T18:26:00.001-05:00

I have read over most of the staff blogs...we are really moving forward with technology. I can't wait until next year to see where we are off to in learning. Things will really take off when the new equipment comes in. I hope the library can make it work until November!

Tool #11

2011-06-17T22:04:00.002-05:00

Just completed my test (90%). I had hoped to do better...but that's okay...a few of the questions did not make sense with the choices. I'm glad to finish the tools...just so I can check one thing off of my list for the summer.
1. What are your favorite tools you now have in your personal technology toolbox? Briefly describe a particular activity that you will plan for your students using at least one of these new tools. My favorite tools - probably Wordle..I use it almost every day. I have found so many new things that I use now as I regularly search out "new web 2.0" tools. I spend one day a month just exploring...as too many new tools pop up. My students are always bringing me something new to try. Just as soon as I think I may take a breather...they bring me something new to try.
2. How have you transformed your thinking about the learning that will take place in your classroom? How has your vision for your classroom changed? Are you going to need to make any changes to your classroom to accommodate the 21st Century learner? I have been a proponet of 21st century learning for about 3 years. I entered a contest and my winnings were a book and a on-line course on using 21st century skills...needless to say...I read the book and took the free class and learned a lot. That was the beginning of a journey. Then I participated with PBL summer school which took the 21st century skills I had read about into practice. My library represents 21st learning all day/every day.
3. Were there any unexpected outcomes from this program that surprised you? no unexpected outcomes. I am hoping my faculty will embrace this and we can move forward to the 21s century easily and quickly...we have so many teachers already moving this way. I am looking forward to this next school year!

Tool #10

2011-06-17T10:30:00.002-05:00

I spend much of my time working on the 9 tenet of digital citizenship. I have a whole page on my school wiki giving background information, videos, and lessons for digital citizenship. I am passionate about my students knowing and being safe on the internet. It is most important that we give them guidelines about appropriateness. Many times what students do is not done to be "bad" but because they don' know it's wrong. We need to guide them.

1. Discuss at least three things you would want to make sure your students understand about being good digital citizens. Students need to respect

2. Share at least one of the resources mentioned above or on the Ed Tech website that you plan to use instructionally.

3. Explain briefly how you would "teach" the idea of digital citizenship to your students.

I love to use the videos on brainpop. Another resource is common sense media. They have great videos and reviews. Easy tech also has some great activities and short video clips for students.

4. Explain briefly how you plan to share the idea of digital citizenship with your parents. I talk with parents often during PTA meetings about digital citizenship. I also send home articles in the school newspaper with information about digital citizenship. The links on my library wiki also provide information on digital citizenship.

Rummel Creek is on the way to teaching digital citizenship to it's entire community.

Tool # 9

2011-06-17T10:16:00.002-05:00

This is the fun part - using and integrating the technology...

Why do you think it is important to tie the technology to the objective? Content drives the technology not the other way around. You select the technology to best fit what you are trying to teach to your students. Having multiple choice for what to use makes it work!

Why should we hold students accountable for the stations/centers? Students need to be responsible...if not...they become careless. In the library...its usually not the students that leave things messed up..except for the cables..they are usually very careful to leave notes on cameras they return. They have learned that they need to respect student work saved on various machines as well.

Visit 2 of the applicable links to interactive websites for your content/grade level. Which sites did you like. How could you use them as stations? How can you hold the students accountable for their time in these stations? This does not really apply to the library..however I have created a wiki for the teachers at RCE with interactive websites that can support their classroom curriculum. PBS has some great things as well KHAN Academey and Wolfram alpha. New sites come up everyday...but you have to check things out. Some of the sites have tracking devices...another way is to have students keep a written journal (online of course) that lets you know where they are.

List two to three apps you found for the iPod Touch/iPad that you can use in your classroom. What do you see that station looking like? How can you hold the students accountable for their time in these stations? Just like the computer stations, students need to be able to communicate what they have learned. A checklist will help keep things in check. Two new ones I found deal with graphics that the students can import into other projects. Creative graphics and forreal

What about other ways to use the iPod Touch/iPad? Share another way you can see your students using the device as a station. I have given each teacher an ipod touch with a rockstar. We have downloaded audio books and books from the gutenburg project. This gives teachers a listening/reading stations. The ipads/itouches can also be used for "on demand" research ...whatever whenever...We need to continue to look for uses for these pieces of equipment...i think we have only touched the tip of the iceburg!

Tool #8

2011-06-17T10:12:00.002-05:00

Management - this will be interesting for the teachers...I have been trying to manage all of the equipment in the school for the past few years. Even with sign ups and "guidelines" things don't happen like I plan. I am glad that they will have specific storage facilities for the equipment. The videos gave some good pointers and things to think about. We will have to work together to keep the equipment in good working order and teachers will have to learn to respect others teachers and their classroom management systems.

In the library next year...things will be much more regulated as more equipment will be available on the campus, students will be more responsible for what they borrow. We did not loose much...but as we triple or more the amount of cables, cords, and equipment...we will have to find a way to keep everything straight and in working order.

Tool #7

2011-06-17T10:07:00.002-05:00

I have worked with teachers to accomplish getting out of our school This next school year I think this will explode as we work with the Oliver Foundation, Fuel to Play 60 and other national level programs. As a librarian, I work with the teachers to support their needs. I help them to find the sources and people to work with rather than scripting my own lesson. I joined e-pals as a way to meet students at other campuses that are similar to ours. So far we have not matched up...but hopefully next year will be better.

Skype gives us a chance to get outside of our campus. One of the things I will share more with teachers next year are sites that offer free skype visits - including "skype an author". There are tons of resources out there...you just need to step out and contact them!

Tool #6

2011-06-17T09:56:00.002-05:00

I have diigo, twitter, skype, wallwisher..etc accounts. I actually use many of these already on a daily basis. I use poll everywhere more with my church group...because they are middle schoolers and they love to use their cell phones! After sitting in the November learning conference this last week...I added an RCE Library Twitter account. It seems more fitting that my twitter account be about the library rather than my life (which is boring!) I'll be able to share quickly with parents and staff (hopefully) a new app or website that supports their learning.

Wallwisher has been a lifesaver for meetings. I post things for a week prior to a meeting on my wall for the week. The list of stickies keep me on task when we meet. The student that was invited to come to the Novemeber Learning conference had a great idea to make a wallwisher for announcements /questions for the community of RCE. I think that is great. It's an easy way for people to communicate. We'll just have to make sure that someone moderates it.

http://www.wallwisher.com/wall/rummelcreekelem.

My biggest problem is keeping up with all of the different accounts. The list continues to grow as once a month I scour for new things to use! Web 2.0 has a life of it's own!!!!

Tool #5

2011-06-12T19:20:00.003-05:00

I spend much of my day creating wordles for various things. My newest try has been trying to master Prezi. I was glad to see that Atomic learning has a nice tutorials on using it.

The list of tools with the links to the tutorial videos was great. It will be a page that I link back to in the future.

I have passwords on most of my accounts from years ago...I finally started a sheet as some ask for numbers/letters/ etc.

The hardest thing has been when you have to come up with a user name and it has to be unique. I gave my staff a sheet to help them record anything...it also includes a box to put in "ideas" of how to use the tool. I have a bad habit of weekly doing a search for new tools...I've found some good ones over the years....it's become almost an addiction. The one thing I have learned through these various on-line courses over the past 3-5 years...don't get stagnant...nearly every day something new pops up...you have to be a learner for life!

I have enjoyed reading my staffs' entries...I think that RCE will be rocking and rolling next year...they have so many ideas on how to use these tools!!!!

Tool #4

2011-06-12T19:15:00.002-05:00

I am one of those kicking and screaming going to Google Apps...but on Saturday...I spent several hours creating documents for my family and my Sunday School Class...and where did I go...google Docs...Why did I go there...ease of sharing. There are still some things that I can do better in Office...but...I am seeing how Google docs will make it easier to work as a team and to share things. As librarians we are using the sites...and I am seeing how that works almost too well.

Even Apple is on "the cloud" now. I must admit...having everything at my fingertips no matter what computer or what city I am in is nice. I also like the idea that it doesn't matter what type of device I'm on...I'm becoming a convert!!!!

Tool #3

2011-06-08T14:56:00.002-05:00

Video - in the years since I did 23 things, the amount of GOOD video has exploded. I now regularly scan YouTube, School Tube and Teacher Tube for videos to share with students. Why recreate the wheel when there is so much good stuff out there? My tech team spends a lot of time "viewing" and "discussing" video clips as we learn to create our own video. The best way to learn is to look at samples. We have learned a lot by studying others. RCE now has a "channel" on School Tube so that we can post our own videos. It's important to teach students good digital citizenship and good skills as they learn to make and post videos. Just as there are some GREAT videos...there is also a lot of junk!

As I am always looking for things to make a difference in student's lives...I was shown this clip...I think every parent should see it. Too Much Information. I've also posted it on the Technology Wiki for sharing with students and parents easily. (http://rcetechnology.pbworks.com)

Tool #2 -

2011-06-08T14:51:00.002-05:00

I have written on every blog for Rummel Creek at this time...except for the few I can not get into. Over the past few years, I have about 20 blogs that I follow regularly....in fact sometimes I feel that I spend way too much time reading others work...I'm still working on being brave enough to post on some of the sites, I feel like I am such a "nobody" that my comments would not be important; however...I love to read what others have posted.
My blogs to parents are improving as I try to use a blog to instruct and share information with parents and community members. I am still a very private person and putting my thoughts on the web is difficult. My personality doesn't come across and my poor grammar is definitely exposed. I'm still working on it!

I learned something NEW today!

2011-06-08T14:36:00.002-05:00

I know that many of you have been frusted learning how to manuever through a blog. Today I took a class in Atomic Learning....and found all kinds of short videos to help you do everything in a blog. You can view as much or as little as you'd like...they are just a little more detailed than the ones on 11 Tools...and they cover specific things such as embedding a video, making your settings...and you only need to view what you need to get your through....
When you click on the links below...you will be taken to a log in screen. Use your "regular" SBISD log in to gain access to the videos. As you watch the videos a log will be created which will give you additional staff development. Use these as you see the need...they helped me a whole bunch ...I am always learning!

Blogging Workshop

- A. Blogging Basics

- B. Creating a Blogger Blog

- C. Using Blogger Help

- D. Configuring Basic Blog Settings

- E. Authoring Your First Blog Post

- F. Formatting and Editing Your Posts

- G. Using Hyperlinks

- H. Posting Images and Video

- I. Managing Comments

- J. Managing Blog Archiving

- K. Syndicating Your Blog

- L. Team Blogging

- M. Customizing Blogger

- N. Customizing the Sidebar

- O. Monetizing Your Blogger Blog

- P. Additional Resources for Educators

Tool #1

2011-06-06T20:36:00.002-05:00

My blog is created....because my students gave me the name for my blog...I want to keep it. Posted a voki and I'm ready to go. One of the things I want to really work on this time is using TAGS....something I have not done often. It is my goal to always put in one or two tags.

Monday And Things Look Better

2011-06-06T20:34:00.002-05:00

Today I was able to post on nearly every site. Need to get a few more posted. Looking at a new day gives me a fresh look....so glad that things are going smoother and a few more teachers have logged in.

Now I need to get on to doing some of my 11 tools....

Frustration

2011-06-05T20:58:00.002-05:00

I just spent several hours setting up my reader for ease to keep up with the 11 tools...so far..no links...and then when I tried to post on the other sites....I was unable to post. Need to send an e-mail for teachers to check their settings...that might make a difference.
I hope that the teachers don't experience the frustation that I am having now......hopefully we can get things worked out through e-mail!

Need to do my own 11 tools!

11 Tools

2011-05-27T20:33:00.003-05:00

I am excited about embarking on the 11 tools with all of the staff at RCE. This journey will be fun and give us a head start on incorporating web 2.0 tools.
The on-line classes will be time consuming...but I'm sure I will learn even more. This will be a great experience for us all. 2011 will be an exciting time at RCE.

iMovie!

2010-10-16T16:32:00.002-05:00

The fifth grade students are doing some really cool things using Menus. The teachers have given them choices for products. Some of the products are easy and the students can quickly produce, others are quite intensive. One whole group of students have decided to create movies. If they do it well...they get 100 points. So...we sat down the other day to brainstorm how to create a movie...from the storyboard to the final product. We talked for about 30 minutes about the basics and then we started talking about perspective. Wow...did we get a long way. We went from starting with "talking heads" to doing green screens. The students decided to experiment with Keynote/PPT for the title slides. The flip cameras were put to use quickly. For the second part of the class time, they started putting the videos together. Each student started with a different piece...I can't wait to see how they all go together. It never amazes me as I work with students how they can so quickly learn the skills and never hesitate to try anything new. Just a suggestion and they are off with new ideas...they are so interested in trying new things....sometimes you just learn things from your students!

Monday, October 11, 2010

2010-10-11T19:17:00.002-05:00

Again it's a Monday to write about the week in the Rummel Creek Library....last week was a great week...a busy week...it was wonderful. On Monday, my schedule was a bit sketchy....a few classes here and there, but time to get some cataloging completed. By Monday afternoon, I knew the week was going to be different than my schedule reflected. The fifth grade teachers are doing some really great things...students are doing menus and can select a project from a menu or list of possibilities. Most of them involve the library some how. It's great! That's the math/science side, the language arts/social studies teachers also have projects going...so....most of the week the fifth grade students camped out in the library...literally...the entire grade level most of the day most of the week. It was GREAT! we had every computer in the library and labs going. Students were in groups and using books as well as any resource available. The students were all in fifth grade, all doing projects...just everyone on their own choice. One moment I was helping out with PowerPoint, the next iMovie, some were using web 2.0 tools and then we threw in pages and keynote. The flips and digital cameras were all checked out and in use. I wanted to take photos...but I didn't have a camera left. The best part was watching the students share what they learned. What I shared in math, they applied in social studies...it was the best week ever!

But that's not all...in and around fifth grade students camping out, we finished the primary GT experiences, story time and lessons for second grade classes on the fiction section and the different kinds of genre available to them. It was a whirlwind week.

But...that's still not all. We had scheduled a day for volunteers to come and process the books from the book exhibit. (Since my schedule had originally looked a little slim, we thought this would be a great week) so 8-10 volunteers joined us in the library on Wednesday for several hours to process the new books. It was great...nearly everything was completed. (Thank goodness for a library assistant!)

But that's still not all...I had staff development for teachers in grades K, PreK and 1st grade. I shared new technologies and books.

This was definitely the week to be in the library....it was the place to be!

The iPad

2010-09-27T16:54:00.002-05:00

So it's Monday and not Friday...things got a bit crazy in the library on Friday. The iPad is here. I like it so much better than the iTouch...perhaps it's my age...I can see it better. I downloaded the app Stanza...so cool...so many books to download.....Now I want to see it on the iTouch.

Fourth and Fifth grade classrooms have received their iTouches...now it's on to Third Grade. Hopefully they will be completed by the end of the week. Downloading the update has taken a little time...Hopefully I won't have to do it again too soon.

Tech Team met on Friday during lunch. I had more than 60 students ready to make movies. We have our first three assignments already from PTA...it will keep us more than busy! We'll have to stay on task to make it work. Life is good!

Wow! What a week!

2010-09-18T17:00:00.002-05:00

Working in library, you never know what kind of excitement will happen. Libraries are no longer the quiet place students go to read, but rather they are full of equipment, activity and laughter. This week the library was everything and more! I can't decide which day was best..we had a computer in a classroom go up in smoke...yes, the students were evacuated while we tried to discover the smell, only to find a computer that had overheated and was smoking! Needless to say, it was a little excitement. We also took in other classes that suffered from a "no air conditioning" day. So the library was always full of students. For books and breakfast on Friday...we had 29 students enjoying the book "Book Woman!" As expected...had I not read the book to them, the students would not have picked up the title. Oh-well..once they heard the story and we talked about the lifestyle of those special librarians...the students loved the book. What a wonderful choice to be on the Bluebonnet List! Next week is the book exhibit...can't wait to pick out new titles for the library. As I set up the exhibit...I found all kinds of titles I wanted! YEAH~ Oh yeah...I forgot about Tuesday - a day spent with Health Fitness teachers - yes...even a librarian can work with the Health Fitness Teachers - It's been a long exciting week. I'm looking forward to a little rest...oh...except I just received my iPAD...how can I not spend time playing with the iPad! JOY!

September 10th

2010-09-11T16:31:00.002-05:00

Busy week again as we are trying to get all of the computers up and working. Tried to share a video with PTA volunteers, and of course, technology did not want to cooperate! Won't give up yet...but it does get to be a problem when everytime you want to share, you hit a wall. The generic log in for PreK/K will be a lifesaver! Now it won't take the entire lab time to sign in a child. It also gave me a log in for a parent who comes in to use the internet. Next week we start projects as soon as the macs are reimaged. It's hard to believe we're in to week four! It seems like school never had a summer break!
I am hoping to finish up a few projects started in the coming days...sometimes it seems so difficult to finish something before something new comes along. It's time to do a check off list!
Next week I'm really going back to being a librarian...trying to keep up with some reading!

September 3, 2010

2010-09-03T12:57:00.002-05:00

Well, I'm already behind...I didn't get a post up last week. I really wanted to get one up each week. This week has been a busy week: Bluebonnet Orientations, Library Orientations and Computer Lab Orientations. For more information go to the website: Rummel Creek Reads, you will see a link to Bluebonnet 2010-2011 - Look for links to activities and more to keep students learning and growing. While you're on that website, check out the summer reading program for activities to do with any book. We're moving on with technology at Rummel Creek. Some of the students have already created two projects. To help keep up with everything going on with technology at RCE...check out this webpage: Rummel Creek Technology....this is full of links to all kinds of information about technology. Since you are searching through this blog...don't forget to look at the Rummel Creek Website (Library Link, Curriculum link, pick a subject) for games and activities to extend and enrich classroom curriculum. For just some fun things, check out the library calendar linked from the home page of RCE (it's still under construction for September).
Yesterday I met with a boy scout group to share with them the "back rooms" of the library. I think they were amazed at all that goes on in the library behind the scenes. Today, a few of those boys were in for a lesson - they sure sat still for the stories!
I am looking forward to Monday "off", Hopefully next week will go a little smoother with a day to pull things together! Happy Reading!

Welcome back to school

2010-08-20T11:00:00.002-05:00

The school year starts on Monday, the library is already busy with syncing ipods, processing books and getting ready for the students to arrive. 2010 - 2011 will be an exciting year with new technology, author visits, new books and more. I am excited to share a new things with the students and parents at RCE. Just for fun...check out these websites to explore: http://www.wordle.net (make your own word cloud), http://www.bighugelabs.com (create trading cards and more), Rummel Creek's school web page http://rce.springbranchisd.com - click on Library Link, then curriculum links to get to games to support the classrooms curriculum. Drop by next week for another update from the Frazzled Librarian at RCE!

Internet Safety

2010-03-26T08:35:00.002-05:00

Listening to the news and reading the paper lets you know that we need to keep up and be aware of whats new on the internet. One of the resources I use is Common Sense Media. This site reviews books, movies, websites and more. They also give you tips for keeping up with all of the different types of media. Click on http://www.commonsensemedia.org for more information. At school we are using iSafe curriculum to work with the students. One of our parents has a site as well.... http://www.cybersafefamily.com . Click on her site for more information on being safe using the internet with children. Additional resources used in the classroom include Easy Tech and BrainPop. We are making sure that our students know how to be safe on the internet. Check out the technology links for Web 2.0 on the RCE page...we've found some more fun tools for the students to try. Fifth grade students used many of these as we began working on their Memory CD for graduation.

Catching Up

2010-02-22T10:22:00.002-06:00

Curriculum night is over, and I think it went well....I am hoping that parents will take time to visit the Rummel Creek site and see all of the wonderful things that are available.
At the PTA meeting I was able to share two student created videos - one from Fifth Grade and another from Second Grade. The students have worked hard to learn the iMACS and iMovie....their creations are great. I was able to post two of them on the Rummel Creek Library Wiki....so take a look. It's our first attempts, and already the students are ready to create more and have made suggestions on how to improve!
Today is Monday...the library was once again filled with students exploring the macs and the iTouches...it's wonderful to see the activity. Parents, you too can come and test the equipment and explore with the students....the APPS webpage has been fixed...it's a little easier to read. Trying to keep up with all of the ones the students suggest. So keep coming back. I'll try to keep them in Alpha order by title within the subject area.

TCEA

2010-02-11T10:16:00.002-06:00

I'm sitting here waiting for a session to start. I have so many ideas floating around in my head. I've learned a lot in a very short time and can't wait to share it with the students at RCE. I've updated the webpage with many of the sites that I learned about. Many of the sessions I have attended have been geared to PreK through 2nd grade. The links for these grade levels has expanded. Please visit the Library Link, Curriculum Link and grade levels for hot links to all kinds of activities to enrich your students learning. My enthusiasm and excitement is not showing as I write...but hopefully you'll see the results soon at RCE!

Library is CHANGING

2010-02-04T11:23:00.002-06:00

I've been contemplating how to get a little more energy in the library...well...the macs and iTouches have done the job. Starting at about 7:20 every morning, students arrive and begin the morning exploration on the computers. At 8:00 we have to push them out to class. It's a good problem. Wish I had more. The late comers get the "old" black PC's...but even those are seeing more use then in the recent past. Its fun to watch the students work together to figure out a problem. I'm not doing a lot of teaching yet, just want them to explore...they are actually teaching me. I've learned a lot about the iTouches. Very cool piece of equipment. My life is changing daily as we add new apps to the device. This morning we had many things going on in the library - KRCE is back on the air, the Odyssey groups were practicing, and then the computer users took over the rest of the space. Nice and busy..Nice and loud...just like a library should be. Be checking the RCE wiki for samples of the student products soon...we've got some Steven Spielburg's in the making!
Curriculum night is fast approaching - we'll be focused on Literacy and Technology...come and see how technology supports the classroom curriculum. Bring your own laptop or iTouch and join us in creating wordles, animotos and more! February 16th - in the Library, Kiva and labs!

Been Away Tooo Long

2010-01-14T12:42:00.002-06:00

Well, it's been a while since I've taken the time to post, but now it's time to get back into the habit.
Technology/Literacy Night is coming soon, and this is the place for all of the information! February 16th at RCE - be there to learn all of the cool things your children are exploring. We have computers set aside for you to create and explore with set up. The fun will start at 5:30 and run through about 8:00 - come by for some fun. Check out the Roadrunner Express and your e-mails for more information.
The RCE students are going GREEN....to help promote the program, students have created movies...these movies are now posted on the RummelCreekLibraryWiki for you to see. A link is also available on the RCE homepage...so take a look!
Check back in a few days, I should have more postings about Curriculum Night and more movies to share! I will try to post once a week to keep you posted about Curriculum Night!

2009-10-24T13:55:00.002-05:00

glitter-graphics.com

Thing 11.5 Evaluation

2009-07-11T17:03:00.002-05:00

I'm so glad to be finished...I would get bogged down in things and play for days before writing...especially seond life. I was hoping to finish before my trip...and I just made it. YEAH!

1. What were your favorite discoveries or exercises on this learning journey? Some of my best learning was the ITouch - I have been resisting the whole idea of ipods...and now I can't wait to get mine up and going! Another thing is was glad I had to experience was Skype....I knew I wanted to learn...but just never took the time...I'd like to do some skyping with other schools next year...that would be a great way to expand our campus.

2. How has this program assisted or affected your lifelong learning goals? Well...it gives me an excuse to keep playing and learning. I sometimes feel guilty when I am exploring "fun" things on the computer..but this way I am learning with a purpose. I also find myself just searching for new web 2.0 tools to see what else is out there....I've learned a lot in the past few years... I now keep up with several blogs and learn from them as well...this gives me the excuse to keep on learning.

3. Were there any take-a-ways or unexpected outcomes from this program that surprised you? The biggest surprise was how many things I had already tried. On the 23 things...EVERYTHING was new...this time I had actually done several and had heard of others. I know I need to spend more time on several of these to be proficient enough to teach to the students (they will already know more)....these include second life and slide share...I see that I will use them...but I don't feel confident yet...but I've learned...don't wait to share until your confident...the kids will give you more tips then you need.

4. What could we do differently to improve upon this program’s format or concept? I love this format...I like that I can do things when I want...I do know that I have to set aside time and through this one I've learned that I need to set timers as to when to quit.

This has been most fun...between this and summer school learning...I feel like I've taken several classes!

Thing #11 Digital Citizenship

2009-07-11T16:54:00.002-05:00

This is something that I teach every year to every grade. I feel that it is very important for students know their responsibility to being good technology users. This is one of those times that you must "teach" the students. Just like being a good citizen means taking care of your neighborhood, being a good digital citizen is knowing how to use the proper tool for the job you need to get done, and using the right resources to get the correct answers. I spend a lot of time working with students to know proper "netiquette", using the right tools and resources and being good observers - reading screens, checking the authors of websites, checking information given. We've had some good discussions when conflicting information has been found on several sites...great way to show how important it is to check the facts. We want students to take ownership of their learning, but....we need to instruct them on expectations and provide them with guidance. I especially liked the graphic with the four boxes and student in the middle...it summarizes it all...you need all four parts to be successful with the digital enviroment...once it is part of the students knowledge...then they can go forth and learn on their own....having respect/netiquett is important...as through the digital world you may send an e-mail or comment on a blog of someone you never meet in person...technology can not just be taught in a lab...it must be integrated into all subjects and more importantly into life. I don't just have one lesson on digital citizenship...I teach it all the time...as it best fits...integrated into the curriculum.

#10 - Virtual Worlds

2009-07-11T15:37:00.002-05:00

This is a big thing for me to step out and try....thanks for all of the tips....without them and talking to others that had already experienced second life it would have been IMPOSSIBLE....I still have a long way to go to actually enjoy it.... I can see how kids would really take to this (and I saw it at summer school) ...but I am still having difficulty with using it in an elementary school with out an adult watching....I also see problems with people getting lost in time...it's very addicting....and time escapes....hours flew by like seconds....and life happened while I was totally involved with a computer screen...the other night is was 11:00 and I was still investigating....I do see how simulations would totally keep students involved...I began to look around for things that were like second life...but not quite so involved... In looking around...I've found this site that is just starting with a kind of simulation for kids...it also includes games - http://games.noaa.gov The new one that is kind of similar to a virtual world is called Waterlife - Where rivers meet the sea. I am sure that more things will be coming out for the younger children...I just hope that they are a little less time consuming...

Thing #9 SlideShare

2009-07-08T13:13:00.003-05:00

I am really glad to see all of these choices. I can already see how we should move in this direction as a way for students to share work, post work and finish work at home that they start at school. As I go through the web 2.0 tools I see how software as we know it will be gone and the "freeware" available will be what we use. What a value for school districts and businesses.

I enjoyed reading links from the links you gave and found lots of information about using the slideshare tools. Last year I thought Google was going to take over the world with it's products...now I realize we only touched the tip of the iceberg.

I will definitely be looking at using slideshare...both to post projects and to allow students to work at home.....

After working with the mini-dells at summer school...this could be the answer to not having access to the server....why not work from the web...then no matter what computer, what device you could work on it....I haven't tried...but could you access from an itouch? Perhaps not to develop and create...but to view...another way to get lessons out to the students.... After watching the students at summer school using two devices at one time...perhaps the tutorial slideshow on slideshare could be accessed on the itouch while the student worked on the assignment on the mini dell. Right now as I am having difficulty with my pc....I'm reading some things on the pc and inputing information on the mac....what you learn from students!

Thing #8 Screencast

2009-07-08T13:05:00.002-05:00

I've explored, played with, accepted memberships and downloaded the necessities for several of the screen capture software. I bought camtasia several years ago and used it minimally, I had great dreams...just not enough time. I am planning to use several of these to help create lessons for my GT kids...this will make it to where they are self directed. Once I am comfortable with the software...I'm hoping to have students create a bank of lessons. My new group this year will be a Tech Team made up of students who will "play and explore" with the new equipment...they will learn how to use these screen capture tools to create short movies to help their classmates and teachers....I'm so glad to see all of these choices...each one of them has just a little twist in what they offer. Check back with me in a few months to see what we have created...I'll upload the lesson that I'm working on once my dell decides to let me log on....I'm working from a MAC because I got tired of waiting for the log in screen.....I want the PC screen in the screen capture so the students can use it.

Thing #7 - Video Resources

2009-06-30T20:56:00.006-05:00

Okay - this is one where I spent several days checking out all of the links and then the links from those links...needless to say I have watched more video in the past 4 days then I care to admit....but I really liked some of the resources...a few I was even able to cut the clip down from what they posted...that was nice...the embedded information changed as I cut the video down. I think I'll have to create a few more wiki's for classes to be able to embed and link more video. Since the students live in a video world...we might as well provide good sources for them.
When I played with TOTLOL - I was sad to see that it is possible that it will be gone...possibly on July first...I wish I could find him a sponsor... I really like the NeoK-12 - It cuts your searching time by a lot to find the videos to support curriculum....next thing...get youtube open for us in SBISD!

Let me go back to the top of the lesson - creative commons...I attended a session at TCEA and came back with the idea to share creative commons with my school in the coming school year...I think it will help the students begin to understand the importance of copyright and giving credit...etc to original sources. I know that this next school year we will begin to create and send to the various sources videos the students make...how important it will for the students to understand copyright as they select music and probably make some parodies....the video on the creative commons site is great....somewhere in my notes I have the link to a great presentation on creative commons...she gave us full rites to share and use with students.

Back to the video - found some neat things to share with students....here are two of my favorite authors that I always share...can't afford to bring them into RCE...but here's a video interview...almost as good.

Tomie dePaola

http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid26961813001?bclid=26973384001&bctid=26068125001

Mo Willems
http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid6904330001?bclid=6811832001&bctid=6801852001

I'm on a roll with this one! Can't wait to share some of this with my staff!

Thing #6 ITouch Apps

2009-06-30T19:23:00.003-05:00

This is a really cool resource...I'm glad there is a whole page to refer back to as I get into this more and more. I was very fortunate to take part in a class on how to use the Itouch....very cool. At first I have been very reluctant and hesitant to use the itouch. My nephews - yes plurals - have been trying to teach me for several month....after my class I showed them a few things. Anyway...the amount of free apps is unbelievable...math, science, note taking and more...not only can these be used for research but for reteaching and "drill and kill". In the summer school program - the day we used the itouches with the students they were so excited...we had a couple of brain game apps loaded and they could have played all day trying to improve their levels (just think how much math practice they got that morning!) The students loved playing the games and didn't mind the "drill" they were getting. They also loved using google. One of my students had created an animoto...but we learned that an app had to be downloaded to be able to view...but we were successful in watching some videos...How neat to have an individual learning environment for a student...if you set it up well...you could have a student go through a learning experience just on the Itouch....set up a wiki and let him link to videos, links and more for almost a "private" individual lesson. Once I let go of my limitations...I see this as a real positive piece of equipment...not to mention the "cool" part of using one. I can't wait to get my itouches up and moving at RCE....I know that searching out good apps will be important...we'll have to share what we learn and find. This is going to be FUN!

Thing #5 Microblogging

2009-06-23T17:53:00.003-05:00

I know it looks like I'm going through these things really fast...but actually...I played with them the last few days...weeks if the truth be known...but didn't take time to write in the blog...I'm finally taking the time to write in the blog...

Microblogging....I really want to get a facebook account...and this almost made me do it...but I've promised my college daughter that I won't until she's ready for me to be out there...(I think she's afraid that her friends will friend me!)...anyway...I know that facebook is the place to be...through my sisters...they have rediscovered long lost friends and relatives....my daughter keeps up with her college friends although she's here for the summer...and all of her events are scheduled through facebook. I think it's a wonderful resource...and I see how having "it all" in one location is great. I'm not so sure about twitter...the few twitters that I've actually paid attention to, sometimes gave me too much information....I'm not so sure I want to post everything that's going on in my life...but....I guess it has a place depending on what is going on. (Okay...i thought I was done...then I got lost reading more blogs...I happened upon a library blog about how they use twitter for quick announcements....perhaps I need to rethink...not a personal account...but a school library account to let the members know when new books or materials arrive....maybe a twitter for the different groups I have to remind them of our monthly meetings....just had to get out of "the box"....maybe I'll revisit twitter....)

I really do like the backchanneling....I think it adds to the depth of a meeting...my pastor has had the kids text him during a sermon for feedback...I think I need to reccommend backchanneling as a way for him to know their thoughts. I am planning to use backchanneling in some of my trainings next school year and hopefully during faculty meetings. If possible I'd like to set it up for some lessons in the library....it might help me know when students are actually getting what I say.....I think is a great way to keep up with the thoughts of people attending a meeting. Perhaps if backchanneling is going on...a meeting/training would move faster and provide more for the needs of the learner....I'm definitely going to use these.

Thanks for finding all of the readings for us...especially with twitter...I was glad to know some of the "rules" I need to pass it on to a few of my friends!

Okay...I think I'm done for the day....it's been fun!

Thing #4 Video Hosting

2009-06-23T17:42:00.002-05:00

This time the Library 2 Play has been a lot of review for me...the video hosting is one of them. I actually learned how to do this by a student...we had made animotos at school and one of my students uploaded his animoto to YouTube....he proudly brought me the link to school and then showed me how he created the animoto and uploaded it. I thought it was great that he had done it all on his own!...and then taught me!
Then my church had a video contest....the way the videos were "graded" was to post them to YouTube...I worked with a group of 7th grade girls to take video, edit and then post...again...they taught me much more than I taught them...we used a flip video cam to take the video, edited it with movie maker and then posted...unfortunately...we DID NOT win the competition! But it was fun learning....
I think this will be a great way for students to share...and learn about copyright....one of the big discussions I had with the girls was the music to use behind the video....they just wanted to put music from a CD....we ended up creating a piece on audacity and then putting that music behind the video....
I have gotten LOST and HOOKED in watching videos....my daughter is always sending me a link...I can see that this is definitely a way for students to learn and share their work. I think this makes learning so much more fun and engaging!

Thing # 3 Like Skype

2009-06-23T17:35:00.002-05:00

I experimented with skype...most excited to see it on the list...I had planned to check it out anyway...my daughter will be moving away soon and this is how we may keep up...depending on how far away she end up. My "outlaws" used this while their son was in Iraq...worked like a charm. I'm now set and ready to use it...I think I will try to hook up with some other schools...how much fun would it be for students to talk to each other during the day....could be a real expansion of learning...especially if across the country....it's time to locate my "teacher friends" around the world.
Loved reading all of the tips....I know this will save me in the learning curve...it was worth reading!

Thing #2 Image Generators 2

2009-06-23T17:25:00.003-05:00

I've spent the last few nights just playing with these items....I am most familiar with wordle and animoto...use these almost weekly with my students. I could see pairing wordsift with wordle...similar, yet very different. If students were working in pairs, one did a wordle and one did the word sift, it would be interesting to see where the two would end up. I did like that photos popped up as well on word sift...helps with visualization. I had fun playing with gloster...I think it will definitely be a new choice that I offer to students. I played with bookr, however after seeing what is available on a mac...I may be more inclined to use the software on the mac. It may be down to what is available. Made my voki....I want to play with ways to use a voki...I think it may be very motivating for students....we'll just have to see how to play with it...It may be an interesting way to get students to visit a website or wiki everyday/everyweek if the voki changed with a new question...just thinking. I added a voki to my blog...

11.5 Thing #1 Inspiration and Registration

2009-06-14T19:55:00.002-05:00

I've decided to keep the same blog, much easier to remember and I don't have to think of another name....my students did such a good job the first time around. I'm in on PDLC...so I'm ready to go.

I watched the video...I feel like a librarian would be the perfect person to be the teacher for that student. I feel like I already help students in creating the learning environment...just need to be a little more proactive on the organization and sharing...as I learn more 2.0 tools I think that will happen. Right now we're using web pages, but as students and teachers become more comfortable with wikis and social networking...this will change and we'll update things daily, hourly and possibly even sooner.

Wiki's

2009-04-24T13:48:00.002-05:00

I have spent the last few days exploring the various common wiki's. I've come to the conclusion that each one has it's place. Before you decide on the one to use...know what you want to do....do you mainly want writing, photos, or just collaborate with others. ...how do you want to organize and how flexible are your users....right now I'm using several different wiki's for different things....organization is important for school, downloading photos for family and ease of use for users for my church group. I'm glad there are different wiki's out there to look at....and I'm glad they are similar enough for me to go back and forth between.
Take a look at some of my wikis at http://www.tallowoodacteens.wetpaint.com, http://pgpsbisd.pbwiki.com , http://rummelcreek.wikispaces.com and http://www.covenantcares.wetpaint.com. Lots of choices.....

TLA

2009-04-17T10:22:00.003-05:00

It's been a while since I have written - too much going on....too much learning. I attended the TLA conference in Houston and now need to try a lot of new things. Michael Stephens is now someone I am reading a following on his blogs.
The hard part now is trying to keep up with daily life in the library - packing up for a renovation project and keeping up with new stuff so that I am prepared for the next school year. It seems like I am always on a big learning curve....

Just testing

2009-02-06T09:52:00.010-06:00

Just trying to see if I can do what I learned

Create interactive meetings at Poll Everywhere

Here's a response

Build television sms voting polls at Poll Everywhere

Here's a gcast pod cast

The Flip

2009-01-30T10:36:00.002-06:00

A new toy is now in use...the FLIP! I had attempted a while back and encountered a problem...this week, we've been taping and droping into movie maker...so much fun. This will be something we will continue to use over the coming days and weeks. A group of fifth graders made a great video about washing your hands....we showed it to the school on Friday....it was so much fun. I am looking forward to what we create next....we have created a monster!

Technology Overload

2009-01-26T12:47:00.002-06:00

Curriculum night is over and Saturday I attended the Activboard training. I have so many ideas floating in my head right now it's about to explode. I have had many positive comments about the web 2.0 tools we are using at school....so I'm going to try to learn and pass on a few more. I learned about podcasting from an activboard...how exciting....can't wait to find time to play.

TGIF

2009-01-16T13:45:00.002-06:00

My brain has been in overload this week trying to learn a few new websites. We're getting ready for curriculum night (next Thursday) and I'm trying to get some fresh ideas to share. Came across these in a journal article....looks like something the kids would enjoy... http://www.readwritethink.org/crossword/ (students can use a crossword or create a crossword)
http://www.tikatok.com/ - (where students can write a book/story…if you actually print and publish…a cost of about 20.00 a book. Register to use…but no cost until printing)
http://www.makebeliefscomix.com/ (create a comic strip…think of it as a way for students to write a summary of a story)

It's amazing how many new things can pop up...I can't keep up with it all. Check back next week for some new sites to try with your children. As always...I'm a bit frazzled this week.

Things to try

2008-11-18T14:20:00.002-06:00

I've decided that I can't keep up with technology. Every day I get new websites to go and visit...rarely do I have the time to try them out to their fullest extent. I'm going to have to try to schedule in some time to "play." www.toondoo.com is a site where you can build a cartoon. www.gcast.com allows you to create a podcast or MP3 file. I've gotten hooked on www.zamzar.com where you can convert YouTube videos into MP4/AVI files to show at school. www.sparklebox.co.uk is a good site for the young children on literacy, numeracy, books signs and labels. All in all, just a few clicks and you learn all kinds of new things. My list just keeps growing.

Election Project

2008-10-29T14:53:00.002-05:00

The fifth grade students at Rummel Creek will be doing an election project, really a "So I want to be President" project. As I shared the project yesterday, I was so impressed about their knowledge of the current issues being discussed on the current national election. Their projects should be outstanding. I shared the final product with a short sample using photostory incorporating several web 2.0 tools. Before I could finish explaining the sample, the students were already shouting out ideas...WOW! These projects are going to be great. I can't wait to see where the students go with their creativity. Today, several had cameras and had begun writing. This is exciting to see the students go after and activity so quickly. More on the election project soon.

Just Thinking Out Loud

2008-10-17T11:04:00.002-05:00

It's been a wild week in the Rummel Creek Library, students are busy with research and projects. I also checked out Mrs. Davis' homeroom Wiki...such good writers. Things would have gone even better if all of the technology had worked...by Friday I thought I might pull my hair out. I hope the teachers and the students don't give up on technology...it's going to be better real soon.....we're learning patience. The first of the activboards just arrived...we can't wait to try them.
Rummel Creek students are always interested in a contest...check out this site for a fun contest... http://www.cobblestonepub.com/kids.html ...
Hope you all enjoy the festival tonight.

Open House at Rummel Creek

2008-10-03T14:58:00.003-05:00

I was able to sit in on fifth grades open house - as a result, check out the Rummel Creek Website, in particular the library website with links to curricular materials.
Try this site: Rummel Creek Curriculum Links. Look for links to typing lessons, math fact practice and more. The general curriculum links are under subjects; grade level assignments are under the specified grade level. Spend some time clicking around to see what is available...lots of good "stuff" to do with your children.

Please drop by the library for the list of passwords to the databases on the Library Resources Page. If you are not familiar with the Library Resources Page...click here. The resources available are amazing. I am glad to work with parents as well as students on utilizing the resources or using technology...just drop by anytime. TumbleBooks are great for primary grades...Again...just drop by and I'll be glad to share the information with you.

Wordle

2008-10-02T14:40:00.002-05:00

This week, we've been having fun in the lab trying to create wordles. What is a wordle? It is a word cloud that the students create. The students type in words, then hit the create button and a neat word cloud is created. We have had fun creating wordles about characters, about ourselves, and about school. At RCE I have not let the students save their wordles on line, we paste them into powerpoint to use later. We have had great fun playing with colors and fonts. Click on http://www.wordle.net. Enjoy!

Back to School Again

2008-09-24T15:26:00.003-05:00

I had really planned to write weekly on my blog and provide information about how the students at RCE were using the Web 2.o tools....well....things have not started off well, we're into the end of September and I haven't written a thing....I thought I'd write from home, but the last few weeks have been home without power...so today I write.....

After spending so much time at home without power, internet, or phone....I have come to the conclusion that balance is so important....as a librarian I can share both the wonderful world of books (and how children can escape into a new world) as well as share the newest technology available. Students need to have access to both...they each have a place in our lives. I have been so excited to hear my students return from Ike talking about the books they read and shared over the days they were at home. It's nice that they went back to the books.....they were probably more exciting than the hot nights at their homes. Next week we'll hit technology again when we're all up with power....tonight...I think I have power at my house (I've heard it through the grapevine)....so I'll enjoy a read at night with a real light. Maybe tomorrow my internet will be back up and I'll find the web again....

Library Inservice Follow-Up

2008-08-25T08:32:00.002-05:00

I'm finally able to sit for a second to finish posting about the Library Inservice. I've been on the road taking my daughter back to college...hard to get internet service driving!
Anyway...I enjoyed taking the time to "play" with the web 2.0 tools again....I had done a lot over the summer, but putting things into practice was good.
Table 1 - Saving images from discovery learning - put into powerpoint and using image generators. II had to make new slide shows for KRCE...so I took photos from Discovery Learning and put the pledges. I had an error from the blog service trying to upload the video.....I need to call and find out what the problem is.
Table 2 - I was successful in using audacity - I had used it a lot last year. I added the sound track I created to my orientation lesson on Photostory...but hit a snag trying to upload the wmv file. I'll have to work on it. ....I'd love to be able to post my lessons for parents to see.
Table 3 - I used photostory for my library and computer lab orientation lessons. This way they will be on the shared folder and hopefully at one point I'll have them on a video podcast for new students to view....still working on that one. Again...I'm having a problem posting on the blog....I think the videos may be too big...when I have time I'll call and talk to tech services...they left me a "problem number" each time I tried to post.
Table 4 - A second part of my library orientation lesson is made up of clips from discovery education. This year I dumped the clips into movie maker. I made title clips and credits at the end so all I have to do is run the movie instead of stopping and starting...I would like to post...but again...I got an error.
Table 5 - Made an animoto to use as a "set" for my orientation lessons...hopefully it will get the children's attention. I have not attempted to post yet....but....I will.
I can't wait to show my teachers the Time Rime...I think they will enjoy it.

It has been fun...and yet a little frustrating wanting to get it all done...but patience will get me through....I did find that the animotos I tried to do on Wednesday went through real fast on Sunday evening...it's all about the time!

Library Inservice

2008-08-20T10:34:00.002-05:00

Just completed trying to do image manipulation. I think this would be good for kids to try as an activity in the lab in the first weeks of school to help their classmates learn information about each other.

Thing #23 Summarize Your Thoughts about This Program

2008-03-23T20:12:00.002-05:00

Well, it's nearly the deadline and I'm finally finishing! I do make deadlines...I had done so well working regularly at the beginning...and then life took over. This was probably one of the most enjoyable trainings I've done...especially since I could do it when I wanted and could spend as much time as I needed (or repeat and watch those videos over and over and over!) I am definitely going to try this again and see how much deeper I can get into some of these things...and then I'll click to more links and see where it takes me. I have enjoyed sharing with my staff and I think many of them will partake in the summer version. Thanks for offering this!

What were your favorite discoveries or exercises on this learning journey? I just loved learning it all....it was great learning things that I could immediately put to use at school (trading cards have taken over my school!).
How has this program assisted or affected your lifelong learning goals? This program has encouraged me to continue to learn...I've always wanted to keep going...but having the "lessons" ready to go made it easier than me seeking out information. This also made me look at how much I wanted to take on at a time.....I've learned to pick and choose a little bit better
Were there any take-a-ways or unexpected outcomes from this program that surprised you? I found out that I had already stepped out into Web 2.0 with my readings in journals and other classes that I had taken. I also learned that even an "old" person can learn new tricks!
What could we do differently to improve upon this program’s format or concept? It was fun as it was...however a few times for face to face discussion would be good too....some of us did that on our own!
If we offered another discovery program like this in the future, would you choose to participate? DEFINETLY
How would you describe your learning experience in ONE WORD or in ONE SENTENCE, so we could use your words to promote 23 Things learning activities? Fun!

Thing #22: Nings

2008-03-21T16:32:00.001-05:00

I like the idea of the Ning...however I need to think carefully on which one I'd want to participate in.....as I've tried all of these things...I see that I need a "second life" to keep up with it all. I could see spending a lot of time reading the Ning's ....I know now why my daughter dropped trying to keep up both facebook and myspace! After using it completely for a while, she now rarely signs in...it took over her life. I can see how a Ning would be a great way to keep up with people that you meet at trainings or staff development that are not from the school district...but again...how much time do I have to give?!? I can also see that it would be another way to keep learning...if each person in a group shared one new thing...the mutiplication of knowledge would be outstanding....hence...needing the "second life"! I spent some time looking at some of the sites and am considering trying one, however I need to spend a little time deciding which groups to join...

Thing #21: Podcasts and Audio Books

2008-03-14T10:39:00.002-05:00

I am really excited about podcasting and videopodcasting. I have been working with my students to produce a podcast going along with our battle of the books. The students have enjoyed using Audacity to produce their podcasts. One of the highlights was being selected to make the podcast. I am now ready to try video. A project that I can't wait to try....I just need a little uninterupted time and more information.
Check out our podcast - War of the Words (Otherwise known as Battle of the Books.) The students even created the beginning in audacity.

Thing #20: YouTube, TeacherTube and Zamzar

2008-03-06T14:36:00.002-06:00

I always enjoy playing around with teacher tube and youtube. I forget about the time as I watch the various videos. Even the high school students I work with will send me links to videos I need to watch. I have just purchased some cameras that I hope will enable me to create some videos easily that can be sent to either teacher tube or youtube. I have forwarded several on to teachers, epecially some of the ones about integrating powerpoint into their lessons...then they understand some of the reasons I give students such guidance on how many bullets, how many photos, etc. In digging around I found this powerpoint teachertube that I thought would be interesting for a project for one of my classes...the kids would enjoy producing one. Only I may switch it into Photostory...who knows.

Thing #18: Online Productivity Tools

2008-03-04T20:36:00.003-06:00

I spent quite a bit of time exploring the Open office tools when experimenting with the lap top design for SBISD. I found that it was very simple to use, a little different than the commercial office suite, but not too hard to figure out the changes. One of the only problems I had was the Open office powerpoint, I tried to insert a downloaded clip like I do with Powerpoint (a project I do with my students) and was unsuccesful. Other than that I didn't have any problems with the Open Source. I was so glad to see that you could save a document in different formats, one of my concerns was that if we moved to Open source, our parents would not be able to open documents ...no problem with the Open Source! I also investigated Google Docs when working on the lap top project...I do believe that Google will over take the world. With Wiki's, Google Docs, and other sources, I think I can begin to cut down on e-mails and editing! Hallelujah!

Thing #17: Learning 2.0 Sandbox Wiki

2008-03-04T20:33:00.002-06:00

After playing with PBwiki, I kind of like the sandbox better...but I'll stick with the other while I learn. It was simple to add a comment. I've designed a Wiki on PBwiki, but I have tried to edit yet....just need a few more hours in the day! I really do think that my students would enjoy this, especially my small interest groups.

Thing #16: Learn about wikis

2008-02-27T14:28:00.002-06:00

I have been wanting to investigate WIKI's...but never took the time. After watching the video and reading through the various WIKIs on the page, I decided to make a few. It was easy to make, now I just have to get others to help out in writing. I think that several of my student writing blogs will actually merge into WIKIs over the coming months....then I can step back and let the students have access to do the work. I'll have to play with responsibility and more. I can see the PTA having a WIKI to do committee work and my Tech team at school will soon have a WIKI...I may go crazy with WIKI's...but it should cut down on the physical meetings and e-mails! Thanks for making me step up to the plate to learn! As soon as I get actual information in my WIKI's....I'll let you know the links.

Thing #15: Web 2.0, Library 2.0 and the Future of Libraries

2008-02-26T20:36:00.003-06:00

Even before I had signed up to take this Web 2.0 class, I had realized much of what was mentioned in these articles. I knew my role as a librarian and the tools I used had changed drastically, and would continue to change if I choose to stay in this job! I loved the video! The notes that each of the students held up was sooo true. I spend much of my "spare" time working with middle and high school students....even those students spend much more time on my space/facebook than their textbooks. I've learned to "call for cell phones" before we try to have class or Bible study. I have to admit, that since I have been reading up and exploring for this "class" I have "risen" in their eyes. We can have discussions and share things that I don't think they ever thought the "gray-haired" lady would ever know. I've watched their eyes pop when I mention something that I've learned from web 2.0. Tonight on the national news they had a short clip that I thought relates very much to the video on this "thing", it was talking about how smart this year's class of students are, yet they can't recall a date from history, or name a specific author of a work of writing. But as the article went on to explain, should these students be required to memorize and recall mundane information when in moments through "Google" or other sources on the internet they can pull up the information needed. Although it will be difficult, I realize that we (educators, librarians, parents) need to allow these students to use the tools that are available to them to acquire the knowledge they need. The exposure that I have had through this class has opened my eyes and let me see a lot of things that I would otherwise have never explored. Even my own children are amazed at some of the things I now know....I guess I'm glad I'm a life long learner...but I think it goes with the job!

Thing #14 Explore Technorati and learn how tags work

2008-02-26T20:06:00.004-06:00

I've been negligent in writing on the blog...so tonight I'll try to catch up. I spent some time last week exploring Technorati - never took the time to write it up...so now...yes, I realize I should tag more. It's a box I just miss. My biggest problem through this whole process is getting distracted and clicking on a link...more tags...more links...I think some nights I just get lost in my "exploring" ...thank goodness there's a home button and I can start over. I have learned a lot about tagging and will try earnestly to tag my sites. I will probably refer to other sites for a while for terms. I've had some difficulty in claiming my blog...all of the log ins and passwords are coming to get me....thank goodness for my RED folder! Now that I've claimed my site, let's see if it is worth reading!

Thing #13 Delicious (misspelled!)

2008-02-12T20:29:00.001-06:00

I'm a little frustrated right now. I tried to install the buttons to explore and import my bookmarks. So far, totally unsuccessful. I tried a few times, but my computer and I are NOT getting along tonight!
So anyway, I decided to just explore the site. I have a bad habit of not tagging anything. I now realize how important this could be. By exploring Delicious - I found examples of tags. I think I'll spend a little more time exploring at the lists of upon lists of tags. I will dutifully try to add tags on my blogs. On most of my blog enries, I have not put any tags at all. ...I'll have to do better.
It would be nice to get all of my bookmarks from my home computer imported...I do most of my searching at home!
I'll try to install the buttons again tomorrow. I am frustrated!

Thing # 12 Rollyo

2008-01-29T20:42:00.000-06:00

At first I was a little confused about Rollyo, but I think it's because I didn't go in with a plan....I wasn't looking for a specific topic. Once I thought about how it could be used, I got excited. I use IKeepbookmarks for sites for students to go and use. I now see how I could set up a search strategy for the students, yet give them a little more freedom to do some general searching. You are able to set the parameters for students to be successful in anything they do. I also see how we could set up some good searches for teachers to help them narrow their searches. At first I got a few strange results, but then I noticed that on the first page, I had a few extra things clicked.
The Rollyo I created tonight is entitled "Lesson Plans." I constantly am looking for a quick idea to share, I put the sites that are usually successful on my rollyo. I of course included two that link to sites with integrated technology. I'll have to share this link with my staff....perhaps they'll be able to give me topics to work with.

Thing # 11 Library Thing

2008-01-22T20:01:00.000-06:00

I had actually run across Library Thing a few months ago and kinda of looked at it and moved on...figuring that I really wasn't too interested. Taking this Libary2Play class, I'm trying to relate everything to school as much as possible and seeing how I can use the different pieces to get my teachers interested in using technology. I have showed Library Thing to one teacher and she was most interested in getting her classroom collection put in (she's a new teacher and is just started in the collection of materials). I think I'll make a handout to share with the staff...this would be a great way for some of them to "catalog" their rather large collections...one of the neat aspects of the service is having a picture of the front cover. One of my teachers has an enormous collection, but he can never locate the book he is looking for because he doesn't know what he's looking for...having the cover will make life easier. Also, having a tag that you could place the level or the box the book is stored in would make life easier for those teachers with large collections. As mentioned before, I'm looking for the hook to get teachers to try some of these new things...I'll have to let you know how it goes. If it takes off even half as good as the trading cards, I'll have a lot of groups to teach!

Thing #10 Image Generators

2008-01-17T20:28:00.000-06:00

Okay, this is very scary! It's too addicting....I've totally lost track of time as I've played on these websites! I can't wait to share it with the students at school! I could easily see this as a way for students to give a quick synopsis of something they have read. I'll have to get with fifth grade teachers to see if they are interested in seeing what kind of humor their students have. My problem...I have no sense of humor! I can't think fast enough with a quick whit. I'm really a boring person. I think if I take a computer to the teacher's lounge and have the teacher's play with it...we'd have a rockin' good time though. I enjoyed each of them, but spent a good part of time on Imagechef...I like the animations! Big problem....too many choices.

Thing # 9 Useful Library-Related Blogs

2008-01-15T21:09:00.000-06:00

It is too hard not to do thing 8 and 9 together! I had a long list of library blogs that I wanted to add, so this was a perfect time to do some additional searching. I'm a real Google lover - so I loved searching with the Google Blog Search....found some obscure things I would not have thought of. I am not to fond of the news searches - I'm already a news junkie, so adding news blogs are a bit too much....I found my self reading too much just from the home page of Technorati.
Thank goodness for Atomic Learning...I've spent some time watching the videos. I'm a real slow learner, so watching things several times allows me to finally "get it!"
I did not like syndic8, I think I'm just too elementary! Pages were not graphically easy for me to read.
I did do some searching for my other blogs for students - we're listed! It was exciting to see your blog listed on the Google Blog Search! I've got a stack of student work to add to RCE Musings. I did a lesson and the students got too busy writing. Didn't find a match for my newly established Podcast....could be because we haven't posted an actual podcast yet?
Blogging is still a new idea for me, but I did enjoy reading what others had to say. It is an addictive behavior, you almost seem like a stalker reading what some people have to say. This being a political year...WOW...the stuff that is out there...you could make any candidate be great - or cause him to fall.
Spent enough time on the computer tonight...it's time to call it quits.

Thing # 8 RSS

2008-01-15T21:01:00.000-06:00

The rain outside put me in the mood to just sit at the computer...I have totally lost track of time, I've been on now for way too long....but I had wanted to learn about RSS. New Year's day I spent hours reading blogs and bookmarking the pages.....now I've been able to go back and add the links to my Google Reader account. Much better than looking at "My favorites"!
It took a little while to figure out the adding of a subscription..I think at one time I had too many accounts opened. Finally got it figured out....then I got lost reading blogs! It is truly an addictive behavior! I'll be glad to only have to check my reader now. Having a reader should definitely shorten my time spent checking blogs.
I found a lot of blogs that I will want to keep up with for school...I didn't really play around for myself. That will come next. I'll have to think about what I'd like to read about...I really am a children's book person...always have been.
As I read through blogs, I can see many ways for libraries to use RSS...what a way to keep up with all that's going on. I didn't link all the blogs I want to read...most of them are linked on the pages that I put on my blog roll. I can see that I will spend hours reading.....may the rains come back!

Thing # 7 Google

2008-01-15T19:24:00.000-06:00

Google - the possibilities. I had begun to explore all of the things that Google has to offer when I was asked to test out a new lap top. I learned about many Google Aps that I didn't know existed. It's almost as if we could "do it all" with Google!
For this experience, I checked out Google Calendar and Advanced search. My younger sister, a fellow teacher at my school - and totally non tech, was raving about Google calendar. I had put it on the back burner to try one day. She has her whole life charted and listed on her calendar...so I thought I'd try. Boy is it easy! I was even able to sync to my phone! I'm a visual person, so I like being able to see my calendar without having to carry around my 10 pound notebook. I think this will be put to good use. I'm thinking of doing somekind of enrichment calendar for my students....not sure yet. If I make the calendar public, I'm wondering if people would use it to sign up for the various areas in the library...it would make it easier than keeping up with "the facilities book" on the circ desk. Perhaps next year.
Advanced search. I loved being able to look up by type...I had been asked to prepare a powerpoint for a teacher's lesson. One quick look and I found the lessons already prepared and by downloading I'm ready for her class next week. WOW! It's amazing what is out there to use.
I'll have to keep coming back to #7 for more...it's got a lot to offer.

Thing #6 continued

2008-01-15T19:11:00.000-06:00

Well, I thought I'd move on, but I've gotten stuck here. It's a good stuck though! The trading cards have been a hit. I've taught several classes, individual students and teachers and my schedule is full of classes for next week. If nothing else, the trading card experience has been worth doing Library 2 Play!
My PGP students want to do nothing but make playing cards, they came up with a list of activities to do for the spring semester...nearly all had to do with playing with trading cards. I may have created a monster! Tomorrow they are going to bring what they made at home. I've got to get to Thing #7!

Response from faculty meeting....a success...I'm scheduled to teach at least one class of everything I shared.....still need to get a few teachers on board...but I'm getting there. Hopefully soon we'll have technology (in whatever form) embedded in every curriculum topic at school.

Thing #6 Third Party Sites

2008-01-08T13:03:00.001-06:00

Well, after spending a few days reading and rereading the article, I think I finally have a grip on Mashups. I think I have used them, just not knowing that's what they were. I have had a difficult time staying on task....so many of the sites have additional links that of course I must go out and see what they are. I spent about an hour chasing rabbits last night! I got to the trading card site and played around a bit there. My second grade students are doing their biography unit on heroes right now and I could definitely see the students making trading cards using the heroes they are researching. What fun it would be! The end result would be fun to actually print and trade. So far everything I have explored I can put directly into use in a classroom situation. I will be sharing several of these things tomorrow at the faculty meeting. I can't wait to see the reaction of my staff. Hopefully my schedule will fill up with classes so I can share the knowledge before I forget it. This has so far been a fun experience, giving me the "right" to play and explore all kinds of new things!

Thing #5 - Flickr

2008-01-03T13:41:00.000-06:00

So today I spent quite a bit of time on flickr. Just in the nick of time. Tomorrow I am doing part of the inservice and was wondering how I would share photos....Flickr to the rescue! In a manner of time I was able to take photos, put them on line and now they are ready for the teachers to access tomorrow. I am sure that I will be upgrading soon as I will use up space. My mind is going fast with all of the ways that I can use this wonderful little thing!
The biggest problem I am having is how I will keep up with all of these things....and with life. I enjoy the time I "play" EXPLORE.....but right now I am not too busy with life!

This has been fun, and definitely stretched my brain a little!

Thing #4

2008-01-03T10:22:00.001-06:00

Okay, so I've registered. ...and I'm on PDLC...yeah for the credit!
I meant to work a little over the holidays...but time escaped and little was done. I did spend one afternoon just looking a various blogs. It's amazing what you can read about in blogs...I kinda got lost for a few hours. It made me feel a little bit better about keeping a blog as I saw how short and simple some of the entries were. I also realized that in reading someone's blog, you can learn something especially if you follow some of their links. I kept getting deeper and deeper into links.

Thing #3

2007-12-20T15:13:00.000-06:00

The blog has been created....I'm sure I'll change something soon...I'm still experimenting...but I like the basics. The hard part about this will be the writing...I have to stop and actually sit down to type. My brain is going 90 miles an hour, but I can't type that fast! I've been interrupted about 10 times since I sat down to write this one, so I figure that the thoughts are disjointed enough. Oh well...

I did have fun learning about the avitar, and now have convinced a class to create their own to use as a way of starting a descriptive writing piece...so I've already put the learning into action. I am looking forward to January in the computer lab. Actually, the class told me how to put things together both in my avitar and the writing lesson...so I'm sure they'll have fun teaching each other about creating an avitar! I can't wait to see the results!

Thing #2

2007-12-20T11:43:00.000-06:00

Well, I am so excited to participte in Library2Play. I have wanted to learn more about all of these things, but never take the time to play....this will be a fun experience!
After watching the 71/2 Habits video, I know that I am a lifelong learner....I had a difficult time deciding what habits I don't use. However, one of my biggest problems is beginning with the end in mind. I usually dive in and then figure out where I'm going....which is probably why I'm so frazzled! The other problem I have is the last trait...play. I sometimes feel guilty when I take time (especially if I'm at school) to explore new programs or websites. Library2Play will encourage me to take that time to play, explore and then peruse some more. I can't wait!
The trait that I feel like I use the most is view a problem as a challenge. Almost anything I try with technology I have hit a wall, but rather than just quit....I just step back, take a breath...try again and then ask for help (usually from a student!) I have also learned that when I help a teacher tackle a problem in the computer lab...I usually come out with more knowledge! So far with Library2Play I've already learned a lot and tackled a few problems....including trying to get my avitar to post....one of my students gave me a hint! Now I'm ready to play again!