Website

I actually email Alicia this summer because I wanted to create a website and build it throughout this year.  I did some work on it earlier this year, but have had a hard time trying to figure out what I want on it.  I'm thankful for this assignment because it has pushed me to work on it more. 

I'm hoping to work on the website over break and actually use it in my macroeconomics course next semester.  If I don't feel like it's ready I may hold off until next year; however, my hope is that I do a trial run next semester. 

If you're interested you can view it at http://www.bontrager.weebly.com/  Enjoy!

Will I Use Google?

Absolutely! 

I'm already using Google in my personal life and would like to use Google more in the classroom.  I'm hoping to integrate it more and more into my teaching.  Today at the faculty meeting Doreen announced that all students will have Google accounts, which is so useful! 

Although I know students will be somewhat resistant to something new, I also think over time they will see the usefulness of Google docs!

Google is useful for more than just surfing the web

Check out the following presentation on the usefulness of Google https://docs.google.com/present/edit?id=ddgrxw37_0f26753gb

Character Counts!

I've created a google document with the Character Counts! pillars that can be accessed at the following link https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ctXAlUktee4FjBOjJrqgrHpY8U_4OxUM0phZShOwQzQ/edit?authkey=CMug8tEB# 

If you have any ideas on creating t-shirts, I'm going to try to design a shirt for the staff.  Feel free to add to the document or email me. 

Cell Phones in School?

Let's admit it, a majority of the students own cell phones.  Although the school blue book mandates that the students leave their phones in their locker, a majority do not.  Lockers can be broken into, phones can be stolen, and ultimately, students simply don't want to give up the comfort of their phone. 

Is it time to change our philosophy on the usage of cell phones?  A recent article in the Chicago Tribune talked about utilizing cell phones in the classroom for enhancing education. [to read the article check out:  http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/education/ct-met-cell-phones-in-class-20101011,0,1580981.story]

This video also supports the idea that cell phones can be used as a learning device.  It was quite interesteing. 

Institute Thoughts

It's institute day, October 29, 2010.  I'm thankful to have some structured time to work on my blog, and hopefully other useful "things" in the future.  It is my hope that I can not only learn about this technology, but also integrate it into my classroom.