NECC Conference

I will be blogging from the upcoming NECC Conference. Check out my conference Ning!

http://www.necc2008.org/profile/Derek

I will also be streaming live feeds from the conference. Tune in at one of the following sites:

http://www.ustream.tv/channel/whatz-happening-now

http://www.livestream.com/whatzhappeningnow

Please follow me!

Long time, No Blog!

It has been far too long since my last blog! Much has happened that should have been written. This blog will serve as a reflection on my experience as a first-year Technology Coordinator.

Accomplishments:

• Advanced technology management skills through problem solving
• Learned more about network management
• Setup Google Doc files to track orders and equipment
• Became more Mac proficient (still learning!)
• Developed dual platform skills
• Learned more about tech integration needs for SpEd students
• Learned the value of having students plan projects on paper before beginning work
• Learned how time-consuming technology can be (my motto: Technology takes time!)
• More proficient at school website management
• Designing A/V Lab for school
• Prepared new computer lab for students to use (Management software & Deep Freeze are essential!)
• Wrote Parent Technology CUrriculum for school parent training
• Implemented EdTech strategies learned from Walden University Ph. D. program

Challenges to Overcome:

• Only served 3 classes last year, going school-wide for upcoming year
• Need time to train all staff in technology
• Need to develop better communication system for teachers
• Teacers do not use available software and technology for instruction
• Students are eager to learn but have interfering behaviors
• Need to develop a database for lessons
• Educational leadership requires additional technology training
• Need checks and balances to ensure that teachers are updating webpage

The list could continue but these are my present reflections. Overall, it was a good year of learning for me ( and the students and staff, I hope!). I did not accomplish as much as I had hoped and was not able to use as much knowledge as I have gained from my doctoral program. I plan to incorporate more strategies next year and use more web 2.0 tools for learning.