This class for me has a steep learning curve, something that resembles Mount Everest.  After our first class and assignemnt of creating a website with little direction from our instructor, I was a little put out.  I felt there was little support and I was not really impressed.  However, during our second class, our prof explained; as teachers we will always encounter new and innovative technology and often will be given a half day PD session and then be expected to present it in the classroom as an expert in said innovation.  The more I thought about what she said, and the more I read, the more I began to see the method to her madness.
                I truly believe that as a teacher I am first and foremost a student.  I am a 21st Century Learner, one who engages in lifelong learning.  The reality of a teacher is that there will always be something new to learn, whether it is changes in the curriculum, innovative technology or different classroom management strategies.  All of this takes place before and after we spend six hours in the classroom.  Not only do we need to figure out how to use the innovations but we are required to effectively use them in the classroom and teach our students to use them.
                The requirement to navigate the websites and videos indicated in the second assignment on my own allowed me to successfully create an effective power point, learn about technology integreation, complete a voice over and publish it on my website.  I am happy to report that I managed to do all of that on my own.  I was able to figure it out under self-direction, and using critical thinking and problem solving.
                I am proud of myself.  I have gratitude for my instructor for the baptism by fire approach (that is working - I apologize for doubting you Master).  And, I am thrilled for my future students because I have the ability to adapt, learn and grow.
            

        To blog or not to blog...a tired but true question.  Is there a place for blogging in education?  I believe so.  We are engulfed in a digital society and the way we communicate is ever evolving.  When educators talk about "21C Skills" part of that definition involves the ability to collaborate on a world wide scale.  The internet allows this but more specifically, blogging.   Blogging in an educational setting allows for an open discussion or sharing of ideas.  It is group work on a large scale.  The qualified as well as the layperson can weigh in with their ideas allowing for interesting discussion.  
        I feel that I could easily incorporate the idea of blogging in my classroom.  The easiest application would be in language arts.  Blogging lends itself to many of the outcomes.  The students could use it as a journal activity.  Bloggin could be used in other classes as a forum for class discussions.  They would be able to see others opinions and comment on them.  I feel that blogging lends itself to formative assessment.  
        One concern I have is the digital footprint of my students.  There would have to be explicit instruction before allowing the students to blog.  Students must be aware of  how they are representing themselves on the internet.  Another important factor to consider is the internet/blogging use guidelines of my school division.  I must be aware what is acccpted practice division wide and work within those prameters. 
    I look forward to learning more about blogging and honing my skills.  Blogging can be a valuable tool to express ideas, thoughts and beliefs.  If used effectively it gives the user a voice that can be heard around the world.