What I Have Learned so Far

I have learned that there are many great things to do with technology.

I have also realized that I can spend hours exploring websites and my list of possibilities keeps growing. Not only have I found things with the assignments that have been given us, but I have also found ideas from my classmates.  I am so happy that there are other elementary teachers taking this course, as it enhances the learning.  This also shows me the power technology can bring to a teacher through the collaboration with other educators.

I used Moodle last year to communicate with my students and parents, sharing websites and posting pictures, but with blogs, it would be easier for my parents and students to give me feedback and communicate with each other.

I did have limited experience using Skype, but never thought of using it in the classroom.  I love the idea of author visits and video field trips.  It would also be useful if I had a child who was absent, or if I had to be absent for an extended time. I always have a parent meeting at the beginning of the year and usually at least one parent can not make it.  If I could skype them, I could show them the important things we talked about during the meeting.  It could also be used if a parent was unable to attend parent teacher conferences.

I look forward to learning about more effective tools I can use in my classroom.

Living Things Learning Songs

Abraham Lincoln Rap

More About Me

I just finished my 29th year of teaching, just completing my 19th year of teaching first grade at Deshler Public School. I really love this age group and look forward to learning how to effectively use more technology in my classroom. This is my last class needed to complete my Master's degree from Peru State College.

I have been married for 27 years to John and we have 2 children both attending UNL.  My son will graduate in August with a Mechanical Engineering degree and my daughter is currently in the Athletic Training Program.

In my freetime, I like to attend or watch sporting events (especially Cornhusker football). I also like to visit with friends and family in person or through email or facebook, watch movies and work with my flowers.

Number 1 Blog

This is my very first blog.  I am looking forward to learning more about how to make this a useful tool in my classroom.