Technology in Education: Notes from the Closet

This week in my CEP 810 class for Michigan State University my students are tasked with creating a concept map to examine their professional learning networks (PLNs). I’ve done presentations on this topic, advocate for and promote the power of PLNs, and contribute to mine on a regular basis so I thought this would be a good opportunity for me to update and reflect on my PLN map.  What I Notice I have an extensive network. This may not come as a surprise to most, as I’ve been in the field for 28 years. What is significant about this, however, is that even though I have been in the field for a long time I am still learning from others, seeking help from others, and giving back to my network.  I contribute as much as I consume. For me, I see this as one of the internal traits of being an educator- to share. I often will find resources that relate to the work others are doing and will pass content on. Those who connect with me are used to my “FYI” or “Thought of You” emails with...

 Check out this great document that was developed by some fantastic coaches I work with!

 Recently I gave a professional development session focused on remote learning and engagement for specials teachers. As part of that presentation, I created learning playlists for the teachers in the meeting. If you are interested in art, music, p.e., or stem feel free to check out the sets below! Learning Playlist for Art Learning Playlist for STEM Learning Playlist Music Learning Playlist for P.E. & Health

This blog post was originally written for ISTE's blog  originally published on October 20, 2020, with a republish on May 3, 2021. I miss attending conferences in person. Face-to-face learning, the opportunity to travel and get a change of scenery, meeting old friends and new, the energy and excitement that you see in everyone sharing the same space all make attending conferences an invigorating experience. But times are different, and virtual conferences are the only safe option right now.  I think it’s safe to assume that virtual conferences won’t go away after the pandemic ends. With this new style of professional development, there is sure to be a learning curve. Here are my top 10 tips to help you make the most of your next virtual conference. 1. Clear your calendar . Act as if you were out of town attending an in-person conference. Close your email, turn off notifications, and move your phone out of reach. If possible, put a vacation responder notification on email a...

Prior to school closures, I had the pleasure of meeting with groups of instructional technology coaches across the Chicagoland area. As education drastically shifted in March 2020 I found these coaches still craved the opportunity to connect and support one another. We met weekly- welcoming the entire state to our meetings. These weekly sessions took place from March through May. But for some, this wasn’t enough. They wanted the conversation to continue in preparation for an unknown school year this fall.  An amazing group of coaches stepped up to collaborate and prepare during their summer break. This document is a result of their hard work and dedication to their schools, coaching, and education in Illinois. They are true leaders, and I am grateful they are in my professional learning network. In just 3 months the playbook has had over 16, 500 views and has been featured in Google's November Newsletter !

This webinar was given on behalf of the Learning Technology Center of Illinois.  You can watch the webinar here:  https://ltcillinois.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_gqyqt_nqSUGZNrn0Ez-2-g

Who do you call when you have news to share? Your parents? Spouse? Friends? Often, when something ‘big’ happens we have a core group to turn to for support. This is incredibly important during these uncertain times with the COVID-19 outbreak. While we no doubt are talking to those close to us (probably more than we should be) there are times when we need to talk to others who understand us in a different context. Educators around the world have been catapulted into online learning. Some are prepared and welcoming the opportunity while others are going in kicking and screaming. Although I am no longer school-based I am in the “thick of things” just like educators- only in my role, I’m supporting multiple counties, districts, and coaches. Who do I turn to for support? The following is a list of groups I’ve leaned on during these chaotic times. All are free and welcoming of new arrivals. Perhaps they will work for you too. Social Media Facebook Groups Online Learning Collective- (a group...