My e-learning journey so far

Have joined Diigo and E-liberation - exciting!

My e-learning journey so far

Wiki

·         Does not require special technological knowledge – (assuming that Ss have basic computer skills and know how to use the internet)

·         Is very collaborative – Ss are contributors and editors

·         Is unlike Blogs where you cannot change a comment or a post – wikis have a more open structure

·         Promotes Bloom’s Taxonomy – Use of Synthesis and Evaluation when Ss work on a wiki

·         Encourages creativity and engagement in Ss – build, build and build – no end   

·         Develops team work and problem solving skills (employability skills)

·         Improves writing skills (no automatic spell checkers built in)

o   BUT – have to be careful about posting Ss personal information and names – seek their permission

o   Have to beware of vandalism and ‘accidental changes’

o   Must cite everything used properly - Creative Commons – special copyright agreement, “share, remix, reuse – legally”

Wikis in Plain English

My Personal Learning Goal

My Personal Learning Goal:

To e-learn as much as I can by participating in Reflect and Connect and then keep learning, exploring, and passing on this passion to others – my colleagues and students.

My Story - I did not know a thing about computers when I migrated to Australia in 2002 (from Uganda – I lived there for 8 years). When I started my Dip Ed and was told that I will have to submit the assignments electronically I wanted to run away somewhere, but I have a wonderful husband who supported me and challenged me – “Of course you can do it”. So I did – took little steps at a time. I even used Web CT!!

I love computers and the new technological world now – I have conquered some of my fears, I think. I use it in my teaching practice– writing my Teaching Plan, Teaching Record, worksheets for students, and as the Resources Coordinator I am constantly researching for free ESL resources which I save on our central network drive so that it is easily accessible to all the teachers. I also use the iPod on my iPhone 4 in class and Facebook for social networking. I have a lot of independence at work and have wonderful colleagues, but our resources are limited. So this will be a constant challenge – of how to incorporate the new world with what we have.

I am now a member of the ACE e-learning network and hope to get a lot of ideas, but I also need to manage my time well so that I can be a part of more CsoP.

"Moving from the one-room schoolhouse to the one-world schoolhouse is now a reality."

Cisco Systems