My PLNA new begin–NING!

Over the past 12 weeks I have discovered a huge range of Web 2.0 tools for :

Professional learning Research Presentation Teaching and Learning

What have I learned?

I am thrilled that I have finally had the confidence to start a Book Blog with two of the Year 7 classes. It is currently being trialled and will be extended to more classes in the next few weeks.

Students will have the chance to use lots of the Web 2.0 tools we have discovered. So far they have completed a Wordle review, a survey and a Wallwisher.

Students are engaged in the new tasks so far. The blog will hopefully become a place that students will want to check out regularly.

My successes…

Students have already taken part in a survey about the reading habits of the class

Students benefit from writing brief book reviews for an authentic audience and reading the reviews of others

Wordle reviews

Wordles have been used with Year 7 students to review books they have read. It certainly makes them think about all aspects of the book rather than just recounting the story, and they love the finished product being displayed.

Wallwisher

Students need to think carefully to be able to write a succinct comment in just 160 characters. They like reading the comments of others too.

By becoming more confident with many skills and tools that previously were a mystery to me.

By learning and sharing as part of a supportive and helpful group of teachers and colleagues.

By involvement in professional discussions through sharing our blogs, Elluminate and the PLN Ning.

How have I benefitted?

Explore, practise, discuss, collaborate, share, support, trial, experiment… and continue to grow in both confidence and skills.

Although my achievements may seem like small steps,

for me they are a GIANT leap.

What next?

As Kathryn Greenhill asked in her slideshow ‘What is Library 2.0?,’ (http://www.slideshare.net/sirexkat/what-is-library-20

) ‘What are the consequences of me trying this?’ and more importantly ‘What are the consequences if I DON’T try it?’ 

Thanks for giving me the courage and skills to try and to keep trying!

Thanks to all members of my new PLN for your support . I look forward to continuing involvement in our new network.

Extra special thanks to Judith! This one’s for you…….