Thing Number 2

As we begin to reflect on this process, we are finding that it will take more time and effort than previously thought. Not because it is difficult but because we have scheduling issues. We will strive to complete three steps per week.

Our decision to complete this process was based on the need to update our own technology abilities as well as keeping up to date with what the student's are utilizing. When we looked at the list of 23 Things on a stick, we found many items that were completely foreign to us. It amazed us how little we actually utilize technology in our school. Our hope is that after completing this program that we will be able to make better informed decisions about how to utilize current technology for our school.

Primary use of the internet is within the workplace. Internet use such as online reference sources are being taught to our middle school population. We are constantly fighting a battle of Google vs. Educational Reference Sites. This seems to steer many of our current issues with security, blocked websites and filters. We are also seeing the use of email accounts between teachers and students. U-tube is a very frustrating tool which teachers are encouraging students to use. Also Wikis have to be constantly monitored as to their content and reliability.

We feel that Web 2.0 does not exist within the school setting. The hope would be that after completing this program we would be able to present to our Technology Committee the current trends and create a program which would enhance the learning process in our school. Our current comfort level with the term Web 2.0 is very low.

We look forward to being able to decipher what Web 2.0 should look like in a public school setting and what would be the best way to implement this for our school.