Tool #6

This is another resource that not only will be benefitial for educators to share and collaborate with each other but also for students. I can see students using Wiki in a similar way as Googledocs. They can use this when working in teams so that they can revise their information and keep everything together in one place, accessible from any computer. I also liked the idea of having students share information, not only with their classmates but any other student from another school in the district.

Tool #5

After briefly browsing through both, Delicioius and Diigo, I decided to register with Diigo because it seemed more complete. I know I will enjoy adding all my bookmarks in only one location! Recently my computer "died" and I lost all my bookmarks I had spent so many hours searching for them through a couple of years. Browsing through the groups already created on Diigo, I came accross these two websites:
www.literactive.com/Home/index.asp

http://21centuryedtech.wordpress.com/2010/01/16/free-project-based-learning-resources-that-will-place-students-at-the-center-of-learning/

Tool #4

I enjoyed working on Tool #4 because I learned a lot of new information. I liked the application of Google Docs because it gives you the advantage of not only sharing information but also accessing it from anywhere. My favorite so far is the Google Reader because it cuts time (and we know as educators how valuable it is!) by keeping you updated with sites you've previously subscribed...all in one place! This is very benefitial and I can see myself utilizing Google Reader quite often. This is also very benefitial for students because they can keep information up to date, which can be useful when working on a specific research or assignment.

Tool #3

I used ImageChef to create a billboard with a customized picture and Wordle to create my word cloud. Although this seemed like an easy task, I spent a lot of time making sure I picked the perfect one. I could really see myself using Wordle to help students develop vocabulary. These are all excellent resources that we, as educators, can use with our students when doing book clubs or even working with science or math vocabulary.

Tool #2

1. What are your thoughts about building an online education community and participating in a PLN?

Most of the moments I cherish as an educator are the moments where I became a learner myself when I was involved in collaborative groups with co-workers. At the beginning of this “Tool’s Journey” I felt a little hectic because I wasn’t sure if I would get something out of it. I’ve only gotten as far as Tool # 2 and already feel this has made a huge impact on my first thoughts. It is great to know that not only we can communicate with educators from our school, but through our PLN we can collaborate with our own educating community. “Community” is a very powerful word because in order for a community to work, everyone has to work together towards a goal…reaching and guiding our students to success.

2. What point stood out to you from the commenting advice?

The point that stood out the most to me is "write a meaningful comment". This leads to great lessons for our students on what meaningful means and how to express their meaningful thoughts into words. Students will definitely need to be taught what a meaningful comment is.

3. What five blogs did you select for your comments?

• 1st time blogger!
• Blog About It...
• iluv2teach
• Rosaura's blog
• The Little Blogger That Could