It seems as though I missed an interesting Skype with Aviva Dunsiger.  From what I have read in Aviva Dunsiger's Blog and on this Google Doc, she seems to optimize student learning with implementing technology in ways that meet students' needs.  Using Twitter, Skype, and blogging,  Aviva demonstrates using the Net Standards for both teachers and students seamlessly.  Aviva also encourages the use of I pads and I pods, the Nintendo DS, as well as other Apps, within the classroom to enhance and differentiate lessons with ease.  My favorite quote from her is, "I see results, so I use the tools!"  In her blog, she demonstrates that even very young students can use technology to demonstrate understanding of difficult concepts and increase literacy skills.

I also found  Aviva's Blog from 2008 to 2011 an interesting read that you may want to check out. 

Let me know what you think of her ideas and implementing technology to meet the needs of students in a 21st century learning environment.  I would also like to know about the Skype session with her.  Anything of interest that I missed???

Model Educator & Teacher Blogs

 The good ones!!! (in my opinion, anyway)

Mrs. Ripp's Blog took on the challenge many everyday problems from being bored in class to modeling positive behaviors and brought about a perspective to dealing with them.  I really like how she handles classroom management and her teaching philosophy. 

Josh Stumpenhorst's Blog not only showcases the work of a Teacher of the Year  but viewpoints that may be against the norm and challenges some may be fearful to take.

 Collaboreyes was well liked for the model it provides to connect students throughout the world.  I think this would be a modern day version of the pen pals that we had as children.  I loved writing to my pen pal and sending the letter through snail mail!  I would wait excitedly for a response.  Now students get instant gratification!!!

Mrs. Schur's Blog included posts with all types of technology incorporated. 

Aviva Dunsiger's Blog showed examples of using technology within first and second grade classrooms.  The videos uploaded sparked great interest and just what should be done more often in the classroom and what even very young students are capable of!

Mr. Avery's Blog is up there with Aviva Dunsiger’s blog for the same reasons. 

Blogs can be an innovative and creative tool to use in

any classroom.  I can see the benefits for the students in

 all types of classrooms.  Students young and old, from inner-city neighborhoods to suburbs, and from all walks of life could increase new literacy skills by using blogging within the classroom. 

Diigo Lists: Resources from Judy Arzt

More resources and information

than you can imagine for using

blogs and wikis!

Judy Arzt's tagged blogs  is a list of many interesting blogs that can be used to generate ideas for use in the classroom.  The one by Room 121 (a group of 5^th grade students) is an amazing example of how to use blogging in the classroom.  Children can use what they have personally created to review material and reinforce new material.  30 Digital Classroom Blogs from Around the World is another wonderful resource to get ideas for of using a classroom blog. Mr. Salsich's 3rd graders  is an example from here in CT!  Also included Reasons, Tips, and even Steps to follow.    

Judy Arzt's tagged Wikis

As a wiki virgin, I found navigating and using Wikispaces a challenge.  I succeeded in making a wiki but I didn’t know Everything You Need to Know about using Wikispaces.  The tutorial was very helpful in learning more about using wikis.  

How do we have time to check it all out? 

What would be best for my students? 

Definitely allows me to relate to my students who are struggling-  I'm

struggling trying to digest and evaluate all the resources available to us!!!

Blogs in plain English

I was still a little confused about  what this is all about and I thought that this was helpful.  Similar to the one we watched in class about Google docs.  I think it could also be helpful to introduce these concepts with our students!  Hope someone else finds it helpful as well.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NN2I1pWXjXI&feature=player_embedded