The Power of Technology

This morning, before school began, Christine Southard and I decided to try out our new webcam. So Christine sent out an SOS asking for friends to help us play and we got a great response. We spoke first with Ginger, who graciously turned on her camera even though it was early morning in Kansas (You looked fabulous, Ginger). We played around with the camera and had fun. Then David J. checked in from Texas. At this point, after we figured out how to get David into our call, we realized the webcam wouldn't work anymore. We're not giving up on that one. There must be a way to use the webcam during a conference call. Lastly, David Warlick joined in from North Carolina (Is that where you were, David?).

What fun we had talking with people around the country all before school began. And what opportunities this opens up for us with our students. Here it is almost the end of the school year (one more week to go) and, while I am ready for a rest, I am so excited about next year. I never imagined in September that I would have progressed so much during the year. I can't wait to see what next year has in store for me and my collaboration with Christine.

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Comment by Christine Southard on June 15, 2007 at 8:31am: :)

Comment by Connie Weber on June 15, 2007 at 3:29pm: I bet your kids come in and see you so excited, then get all excited themselves! It's great to hear how creatively involved you are, experimenting, designing new ways to use the learning tools. It says a lot that you're so upbeat right now, when usually energies are just about completely spent. The new technologies seem so revitalizing! Please share what you're experimenting with, and keep us posted.

Comment by Ginger Lewman on June 15, 2007 at 4:28pm: I'm so appreciative for the invite so I could continue to learn too! We'd sure like some recommendations from those who record Skype calls/conferences to see what possibilites are out there.

Comment by Durff on June 18, 2007 at 8:52pm: Did you say David Warlick? OMG! I used the webcam to Skype a colleague in CA (I'm in MD) and the webcams didn't sync right until I called him back. I don't know why either. Could be a VOIP generated hiccup....Holding a videoconference is a great last day activity. Be sure to read Kim Cofino's tips! I used the hot seat and the questions (we each wrote down or typed four), but I didn't buy a talking stick yet (a better mic). Best of luck...David Warlick called....OMG!

Comment by Lisa Parisi on June 19, 2007 at 4:52am: Hi Mrs. Durff,
We tried to speak with you yesterday but you weren't on when we were. You never know who might show up in a conference call. :)

I'm going to take your advice and check out Kim Cofino's tips. Thanks.