Brainstorming Project Parameters

 

The final vision project has been on my mind since the beginning of the course.  I knew the biggest challenge for me was going to be coming up with an idea that would showcase my learning and prove useful to others.  Initially, I decided to make a smart board resource package for my staff.  We are in the process of ordering our first ever smart board, and as most teachers in my school have taught here for over ten years, they have not had the opportunity to use one elsewhere.  Beyond the smart board thoughts, I considered setting up a library wiki site to present information on blended learning.

Creating a Wiki Library

A Collection of Smart Board Lessons for High School

Scholastic Interactive Whiteboard Lessons

 

While out running, I came up with another idea. I decided to create for my staff a professional collaboration website that will include ways to use the new technology in our school, professional development opportunities, opportunities for group discussion, and links to useful educational websites.  I thought of making the site using our school district platform and then giving teachers on my staff user access so they can add to the site if they have useful resources to share.  It would make the resource more interactive and collaborative instead of having me as the sole contributor or administrator. 

What the heck is a personal learning network?

My first concern was whether the school district platform, called SharePoint, would be versatile enough to suit my plan.  I have been using it for my Science 8 Homepage, but I have not had time to completely explore what can be done with it.  I considered using a Google site if the school district platform was too limiting, but ultimately, knew that ease of access is key if this site is to be used.  Using our school district platform would give everyone easy access and it will give me the opportunity to showcase some of the technology on our site that can also be used in the classroom.

Web 2.0 Cool Tools for Schools - Collaboration Tools

To help me with the decision, I contacted the district resource teacher to ask his advice on how I can make this website happen using our school district platform.  He suggested that I create a group site.  I was quite excited to hear about this option and have already created the group site.  I will hold off adding any other members until I have started the site properly.  In the meantime, I have talked to my administrators about creating this site and they think it sounds like a great idea.                                                                       

                                                                           

                                                                                    Kalamalka Staff Collaboration Site

 

Having decided to use this platform, I can now get on with the business of adding to the site and choosing which information from Libe 477 I would like to share, and which information I still need to find.  I also plan to introduce the site during a staff meeting or at our professional development day in May.  Promotion will be important to create interest in this new way of communicating, especially with those staff members that are not very comfortable using technology. 

I am excited about creating my Final Vision project and have high hopes for how it can be used to increase communication, share information, and connect members of my school community.

 Sources:

http://www.edutopia.org/blog/blended-learning-getting-started-lisa-dabs

http://www.synergysuccessstrategies.com.au/admin/editor/uploaded/Vision%20Future%20Fotolia_6619832_XS.jpg

http://www.clker.com/cliparts/D/4/U/8/J/5/smartboard-hi.png

http://cooltoolsforschools.wikispaces.com/Collaborative+Tools
 

 https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B80uBhhCYAArrgx.jpg
 

http://www.e-techuk.com/images/seo-promote-your-website.jpg