Practicing What I Preach- Digitally

August 10, 2012

I think I'm on my way with this standard.  I have totally embraced complete digital communication of expectations, assignments, units, hand-outs, etc. to students (and therefore parents) through my Wiki.  Last year, I adapted to collecting work digitally 99% of the time and after six weeks had it mastered.  I look to tweak this system by using Evernote in addition (or as a replacement) for e-mail and Google Docs to collect and evaluate student work.  I also look forward to sharing content with students via Evernote and letting them use notes as a working (living?) document where they can add examples and images thus making them richer and more meaningful.

I will have to commit myself to having the necessary fluency as our Digital Age constantly changes.  I become comfortable with what I know and probably tend to lose sight of current innovations.  I would love PLC time to become a time to really teach each other about new Apps, etc.  I know we have used Tech Tuesdays as this type of forum before.  I think extended PLC time will really encourage me to try new ideas sooner.

Using our district's FB/iPad page, teacher blogs, Edutopia articles, etc. etc. will encourage me to stay current also.  I think I need to re-embrace Diigo for its ease in seeing these resources.

Ultimately, working digitally makes me more efficient when I stay focused.  My downfall is falling prey to the abundant distractions on the internet (even when I start with professional intentions).   The fruits of self-discipline always do seem to pay off.

3. Model Digital-Age Work and Learning
Teachers exhibit knowledge, skills, and work processes representative of an innovative professional in a global and digital society. Teachers:

• demonstrate fluency in technology systems and the transfer of current knowledge to new technologies and situations.
• collaborate with students, peers, parents, and community members using digital tools and resources to support student success and innovation.
• communicate relevant information and ideas effectively to students, parents, and peers using a variety of digital age media and formats.
• model and facilitate effective use of current and emerging digital tools to locate, analyze, evaluate, and use information resources to support research and learning.