Summer Learning Reflection Game Changers

What a summer it has been, full of active learning - mostly self directed too. There was some traditional professional learning involved such as attending ISTE in San Antonio along with 10 other colleagues. This summer I experienced my first unconference, a PrincipalMeet and a TeachMeet. I also filled my learning time reading books such as "Essential Questions" by Grant Wiggins and "Design for How People Learn" by Julie Dirksen. However, most of my learning and collaborating was done virtually. I participated in book & weekly chats, listened to podcasts, watched webinars, collaborated with my PLN, and along the way made new Twitter connections. I was able to pick and chose areas that interested me the most, the ultimate DIY PD.

I spent a good amount of time learning and using new apps of which I plan to use with my students this year such as:

30 Hands

Aurasma

Thinglink

This summer has also been pivotal in shifting the way I design lessons. I actually spent a great deal of time revamping my most dreaded unit, geography. Paul Solarz (@PaulSolarz) played a big part in helping me rethink how and why I was teaching geography. It simply started with a tweet, and his comments on my Google document were extremely valuable. Just the spark I needed to take off with my planning. He is a wealth of knowledge and generously shares.

I also jumped in and started designing a class website using Google Sites. It is still a work in process, but I am feeling good about providing my students with a landing places to find resources, links, and information about my course/units. They too will be using Sites for their digital portfolios, another new experience for me. My students will continue to use Edmodo and Kidblog as collaboration platforms. I also started blogging myself. Which I find to be a powerful, reflection tool. It is so helpful to dump all of my thoughts and learning into a blog. I've also enjoyed reading other people's blogs. Now, I can share with my students my personal blogging experience, just as I expect them to be bloggers.

I also have more of an understanding of how the 20% Project concept works, and I connected with people on Twitter that I can rely on for support. I am so curious to see how the concept will work with my students.

My classroom will also be different this year. I've gotten rid of my teacher desk, my room instantly became larger. Instead of desk, I will have a rolling podium that will house my teacher laptop and iPad. Twenty iPads will be living in my room, no more anxiety as to whether I will have access to technology. This will be a game changer for sure!
                              

With all of my learning experiences in hand, I am so excited for the first day of school. When people ask me if am ready for school to begin, I immediately answer "YES!" I usually get a surprised "Really?" response. I can't wait to take my new learning and ideas out for a test drive. Hoping for smooth sailing, but I realize not everything will work as planned. I will embrace and learn from the failures and relish from each successful learning experiences. It's is going to be a great year!