Positive Feedback...

I had a discussion yesterday about the state of schools in America... where we've been, where we're headed, how we are measuring up with the rest of the world... and need I say more?

Between the economy, the election, the war, the media and our never-ending "To Do Lists"- it is sometimes hard to stop and smell the roses. But, the truth is- wonderful things are happening every day in our school system. As educators, AND patriots, we must fill our tanks with those positive happenings and allow them, and each other, to fuel our inspiration and enthusiasm for tomorrow- regardless of how many more tasks are tacked on to the list.

If something has inspired you lately, if you've seen a brilliant success happen in our school system- let us know about it! Someone may need to hear your positive words. Thank you for sharing.

Great List of FREE Resources for 21st Century Learners and Professionals

Want to make sure you are up to date on the best learning and professional tools?

Check out this article and quick slide show from the Centre for Learning and Performance Technologies http://www.c4lpt.co.uk/25Tools/index.html

The tools are a mix of personal productivity tools (for managing personal learning) as well as authoring tools (for creating learning solutions).

Image from www.able.state.pa.us/.../view.asp?a=7&Q=117064

Other Great Blogs About Instructional Technology

Here's a great one from Dr. Chris Moersch a.k.a. "The Loti Guy."

http://www.loticonnection.com/weblog/lotiguyspeaks/ I liked his recent entry on "Teach 2.0." His ideas for classroom learning activities are all exciting and engaging, both rigorous and relevant, not to mention FUN! But... what stops these great ideas from happening in all of our classrooms today?



Ask a group of educators and you will get all kinds of feedback- teachers are being stretched to the limit to keep up with the various demands placed on them and their students. It can be exhausting! But, Dr. Moersch hits the nail on the head when he states...

"Exercising the instructional muscle embedded in Teach 2.0 pedagogy will only help to unfold the potential of Web 2.0 technology as well as increase student engagement and achievement in the classroom."

The metaphor is perfect- think of technology integration as exercise. We can start small and build up as we go. In our outside lives, exercise is one of the most, of not THE most important component of successful and happy lives- yet we often forgo our exercise regimens because we feel we are too busy or tired to give our health the priority it needs. But, just like technology integration, the more we exercise and push through the unknown and tough days- we find the rewards to be exponential and wonder how we ever lived without proper exercise before.

If you are going strong- push for the next level. If you just getting started- good- start small and remember to keep building. You already have resources and support, all you need to bring is motivation and commitment. Now, let's hit the gym!