Resourceful Website Helps Educators Stay Connected

When I read Steven W. Anderson's post on the blog, Blogging About The Web 2.0 Connected Classroom, I thought he had read my mind.  His post, Find New Resources For Your Classroom With eduTecher gives information about a great online resource that educators can use.  As educators we are always trying to find new information for our students and ways to use technology.  However, we don't always have the time to sit searching through the numerous websites that offer such information.

Enter the website eduTecher.  This website contains a generous amount of technology resources, educational links and even tutorial videos for teachers.  The resources are free and can be used by anyone.  The eduTecher site contains so much information, it has filters such as grades and subject.  I plan to spend some quality time exploring this exciting website. 

Exciting News From Our Neighbors Up North!

It is always exciting when schools decide to put the focus on providing the best education possible for their students.  Such is the case with the New Brunswick public school system.  In the video 21st Century Education in New Brunswick, Canada, the words appearing on the screen speak volumes. 

New Brunswick's approach to preparing their students for the future begins at a young age.  The schools take advantage of the fact that 2nd graders can "keyboard 60 words a minute", text, use Twitter and Facebook.  They provide (anytime, anywhere) accessible learning for their students.  They make community service a high school graduation requirement and the teachers stay relevant to keep the students involved and engaged.  And the results of these efforts?  The schools will produce young men and women prepared for the world and full of knowledge acquired through experiences and applied opportunity.

I really liked the ideas in this video.  Some of the ideas were innovative concepts that I have not yet seen in schools.  I hope we can take notice and begin to prepare our students for a better future. 
Take a look and judge for yourself.

Ready for the Brave New World

As I read the first chapter of Robert J. Blake's book, Brave New Digital Classroom (Technology and Foreign Language Learning) I was impressed by the author's idea that "technology requires constant updating and continuing education".. (Blake, 2008)  In this statement the author was referring to the teachers and the need for language professionals to keep current with technology.

One would think that as an educator the need to be current with technology would be automatic.  Yet, there are still teachers who are convinced that "change" is not necessary to keep learning current.  For others it is , "just fear of being replaced by technology".  (page13)  However, the author is not so sympathetic to these teachers who are standing by the sidelines in "fear" while technology continues to advance.  He offers a "rational response to their question of whether or not they will be replaced by stating in fact that they will, but by teachers who embrace technology". (page 14).

In a world that is becoming smaller by the use of online communication, educators must continue to expand their horizons educationally.  Technology can be somewhat intimidating for those unfamiliar with it, but there are many opportunities to become knowledgeable through practice.  Many students today text, use email, tweet, and use the Internet for online resources.  And all these resources if use properly can enhance the learning experience in the classroom.  We as educators must set the standards and lead by example.

So, if you are an educator who has been on the fence about getting involved with technology, begin with small steps.  Take time to explore different online resources for documents, such as Googledocs.  Or if you are more adventurous, create a Wiki or blog for your classroom.  The amount of resources on the Web is vast, but small steps can lead you into a "brave new world".