Thing 23- I MADE IT!

I am a changed person. In one of my graduate classes we studied our current educational system- its structure, forms of assessment, ideologies. It was crystal clear that students who were able to succeed in such a system were typically rule followers, able to conform, thrived in orderly environments. The students who didn't learn in this setting were deemed "failures" when in fact, their learning styles were only addressed in classes such as art, PE, music, etc. and not in the academic classrooms. It so many cases, this cycle continues today. The idea of Web 2.0 really allows students the opportunity to experience learning in their own, most productive manner. Students can jump right over the lower levels of Bloom's taxonomic levels because they will be experiencing their learning in a way that suits their brain naturally. They can jump right up to the higher levels of thinking without stumbling over the comprehension of material presented in a way that is inconsistent with the way their brain functions.

Before 23 things, I looked at the use of technology in the classroom as an extra thing, a bonus. I now view it as essential in facilitating the learning of my students. The videos in Thing 16 was the climax of my paradigm shift. The challenge- reworking my curriculum so that I can make it happen.

My plans:
I've worked on a few things for Bermuda Triangle and have more stewing in my head regarding presentation and projects. Over the next year as I prepare for my units, my goal will be to incorporate a Web 2.0 tool into each unit. Additionally, I will share these ideas with my colleagues who happen to be very receptive to innovation.

Obviously Web 2.0 is fluid, so I have bookmarked the 23 Things page on delicious and will continually check it to see what is new. Each "Thing" is presented in a way that doesn't intimidate me, so I feel comfortable checking it frequently. I plan to show a few of my favorite colleagues this incredible resource!

Take aways: collaboration, flexibility, fluidity, higher level thinking, reaching all students, convenience, ever-changing, socially oriented

Thank you for the amazing opportunity!