Summarize

• My favorite exercise was learning all the Google tools. I have learned so much and have already applied the use of the Google Reader, iGoogle, Google docs, and more.
  

I have always loved learning new things and this class has inspired me to continue that quest.

• I did not realize how much the internet was being used for collaboration purposes. It is amazing the ability and availability to share ideas.
  

• I loved the format of the class. I am sure some people may have gotten lost with the technical nature of the course, but you have to learn sometime.
  

• I would most definitely participate in another online class of this nature.
  

• I love technology and using it in the classroom has been a goal of mine for a long time, this class will help me to continue with my plan of teaching my students how to use technology and what it can provide for them.
  

• I am going to continue with my reader and monitor posts that relate to Web 2.0 tools.
  

Thing #23 - Beyond MySpace: other social networks

I am truly amazed at the wealth of knowledge that is being shared through these networks. It is overwhelming and time consuming searching through all the information. I found several valuable resources and hope to find other educators around the WORLD to share ideas with. I would love for my class to join a group in order for my students to see the views and opinions of other students their age.
The Ning network was a little confusing for me. The interlinking of groups and networks keeps my head spinning, but I'm going to stay with it. I really believe this can be an excellent resource for my classroom and how to teach my students better.

Thing #22 - Explore social networking

I chose to create a Facebook profile.  I have already reconnected with several people with whom I graduated high school.  It's a neat way to keep in touch and socialize.  I can see where people get consumed with social networks.  

1. Why is it important that educators know how social networking works?

Kids are constantly on the sites and it helps educators relate with their students better and gain insight into what motivates them.
2. What new insights did you gain about these popular sites?

I was surprised at who i was able to locate on Facebook.
3. What did you like or dislike about each of the sites you explored?

Facebook seems more appropriate for adults.  I really don't have the time or want to create an elaborate page.
4. Which site had the most useful features?

MySpace
5.Can you see an educational application for any of these sites?

You could create a join a network of educators or create a school network in order to share ideas.

Thing #7a and #7b - Google Reader revisited

Will Richardson's blog Transparency = Leadership thoroughly expresses my concerns about collaboration, the online community, and the hesitancy of educators to jump in.  

For math teachers, I also found a the National Library of Virtual Manipulatives which allows hands on"line" activities.

Tech Learning had an interesting post Embed Files with Ease that directs you to Embedit.in. Tech Learning had bookoos of information that was helpful.  I highly recommend subscribing to that blog.

Thing #21 - Google's not just for searching anymore

I tried several of the tools, such as alerts, iGoogle, calendar, and Google sites. I really like the compatibility that Google offers its users.  I created my own iGoogle Home Page.  

I also created a Google Site Our Davis Four.  It is definitely a work in progress. This would be a great way for our family and friends to see what we have been doing.   I know that having a teacher or team site is very helpful for parents and students.  My team, the Navigators has our own website, check it out.  The Navigator Team.  I enjoy creating, sharing, and using a computer.  It is a shame that we don't teach more of this to our students.  You would be surprised at how few of them actually know these tools and how to use them.  We truly need to open up the door to collaboration with are kids and the internet and google is a fascinating way to do it.

Thing # 20 - Google Docs

I am so loving Google right now. Just the other day, my daughter was trying to type something using a text application because her laptop does not have Microsoft Word. Now, I can show her how to use Google Docs to type her papers and access them from anywhere online. I actually created an account for my husband and showed him how to use the Google Reader to subscribe to Physical Education and Sports feeds.

Here are a few ways I could use this in the classroom or professionally:

1. You could actually have students create a document for their homework assignment instead of writing it on paper.

2. Teachers or team teachers could create a collaborative document of useful sites and links that students or colleagues could access.

3. As a math teacher, I could create or have students create a form and conduct an actual survey. The results could be easily reviewed and in a spreadsheet.

I created a Navigator Information Form using Google docs that I hope to use at the beginning of each school year to retrieve student information.