I never anticipated learning so much in one 8 week class. In my experience, technology classes usually brush the surface of a few commonly known Microsoft programs and I learn little to nothing new. From the very first class that we filled out the technology survey I knew this class would be different. I had never heard of 90% of the things mentioned on the list. Now, I feel that I can comfortable have an intelligent conversation about all of the new technologies we learned. Also, after learning about the NETS standards for teachers, I feel responsible to utilize technology as much as possible in my classroom and to share with as many colleagues as I can. I definitely plan to begin having a classroom blog to stay connected with parents as I begin a fresh start in 2nd grade next year. I have also recently learned the value of Skype, which I had earlier taken for granted. This course has opened my mind to consider joining Twitter. I had many pre-conceptions that it was just like Facebook, but I see now that it can have many educational and professional uses.
My favorite Web 2.0 tools from this class are Animoto, Voki, and Diigo. These new tools will be a constant in my new classroom and hopefully I will soon be able to explore the many many more digital storytelling options that I have saved in my Diigo.
