great tech links!

My sister Melissa has compiled a great wiki with technology links that will certainly have benefit to you in your classrooms!  More links to come.

http://melissaenderle.wikispaces.com/SmartBoard

moving from facebook to google+

To try and keep up with tech I've joined the google+. Moving sometimes is a pain, but this helps makes the experience a bit easier.

http://www.maximumpc.com/article/features/how_migrate_your_facebook_account_and_data_google

integrating tech into the classroom

As I'm considering experimenting with creating a blog for my classroom, I will be doing some testing using my main page for testing grounds.  Working on attaching QR codes.  to the site.  Work in progress!

planets in space- abby's ceiling

A section of Abby's celing after the recoration.

(test of blogging that apparently works here)!
 Although blogs have been around for years, I have first started becoming accustomed to using them. Blogs are a great communication tool, as it takes no coding, and can rapidly be customized to fit any needs.  There are many ‘gadgets’ that can be added to a site to further enhance or compliment the information being given.  Photos, lessons, and comments can easily be added, and the commented by viewers.
Having a classroom blog could provide a platform for me to communicate calendar events, such as the art show, fundraisers, and the enrichment programs that occur throughout the year.  Having an open public dialog with the community is important, especially during the financial crisis that seems to be always looming over our schools.

I have not yet used blogs for my classroom instruction, as my students are young, and while in my classroom, they do not have internet access. I am considering putting blogs of my students work online, so parents and family can comment.  Students in upper grades could easily use blogs to critique artwork and provide feedback and positive comments to their peers.  I don’t know many students that dislike getting attention with their great work!