Thing 22: Staying Current

As I reflect on all that we have explored and learned I am very proud of myself. Now to keep on going is the "thing". I think the best way for me to continue my growth and expertise in this area is to pass on this knowledge to my colleagues. If I can train others and show them just a bit of the "stuff" we've learned that will help me maintain and go forward. I've already started doing this by each time I became so excited after learning a new "thing" I couldn't wait to share it with someone at school.

Thing 21: Student 2.0 tools

Two great tools!!! I copied and pasted websites and have just emailed them to the teachers at my school. Great way to organize. On the RPC each step of the process has additional links and pdf files to download and share. It will even email you reminders along the way. I will definitely share these sites with our students.

Thing 20: Books 2.0

Once again alot to explore. I loved the one on Facebook, WeRead. Joined that and will use that on Facebook to log what I've read and what I want to read. I still love holding a book in my hand to read. Magazines too. Kindle, is probably too expensive for the public school to purchase but I could see it inspiring some youths to read. We purchased playaways thinking this would really help our students who are struggling with reading. They would, if the students would come and check them out. I introduce them to a class they get all excited check them out and then I don't see them again. I still believe if reading is valued in the home then the students will come into the library and read.

Thing 19: Other Social Networks

I am a member of Facebook. I explored Web Junction, Ning and Gather. I did not join any of them just because I am a part of two many "things" right now. The one that did catch my eye was Teacher Librarian Ning.

Thing 18: Facebook

After starting this class in January it opened my world to a whole new bunch of tools at my disposal to use in the media center. Regrettably a number of them, Facebook, included is blocked from use at school. However, I started explorer these "things" with the idea not only how can they be used in my job but my personal life. I LOVE Facebook!! It has allowed me to connect with hs friends and see where they are now. I also like that I don't have to let anyone "in" that I don't want to. I've joined a number of joins and causes that are near and dear to me. I wouldn't feel comfortable connecting with my students, though. I am currently working on setting up another blog for our school and students. That tool is not blocked from use. 23 Things @ Neflin has been one of the best things to happen to me this year! It is right up there with knowing I still have a job next year!!

Thing 17: Podcasts

I explored Podcasts.com, YahooPodcast and Educational Podcast Directory. I was trying to find the one that would allow me access the easiest. I ended up joining Podcasts.com since they boast the largest collection. I think this is great for those who are audiotory or have a visual impairment. I am a visual learner and tend to tune out that which is spoken and goes on and on. I tried searching the ones that dealt with children's books. I found a multitude of book talks. We subscribe to teachingbooks.net and I find that a much better presentation on author talks since it is a collection of videos. At this time I am not inspired to create my own.

Thing 16: YouTube