FINAL POST

How has this program assisted or affected your lifelong learning goals?

• Although I often WANT to learn about new tools and websites, my daily obligations usually take up my time and attention, and I keep putting off the shoulds of my own professional development. Having this extended structured time was very helpful in giving me the opportunity -- or the excuse -- to fulfill my goals. The role of a school library media specialist / instructional technology facilitator is to help teachers to learn and use new technologies and to embed them within their curricular practices. This program has helped me by allowing ME to learn new tools, as well as spreading the word that media specialists are available to help teachers who also want to learn and use new tools.
  

Were there any take-a-ways or unexpected outcomes from this program that surprised you?

• Not really. I expected to learn new things, and I did. I expected to find some wonderful new tools, and I did. I expected to be amazed at the things my colleagues created, and I was.
  

What could we do differently to improve upon this program’s format or concept?

• I can't think of a single improvement. It is portable, flexible, and incorporates a variety of TYPES of tools that can be used in a variety of instructional settings.
  

If we offered another Web 2.0 program like this in the future, would you encourage colleagues to participate? What would you tell them?

• ABSOLUTELY! This is a wonderful format for learning new skills - especially those that center on web-based tools. Learning hands-on, with an eye towards implementing these tools in one's job, made this relevant and motivating. I could work on it at home or at school. I could do two lessons - or even three or four - at a sitting. I could fall behind, only to catch up when I had a chance. This really takes into account all the demands on a teacher's time and attention.

How would you describe your learning experience in ONE WORD or in ONE SENTENCE, so we could use your words to promote the program in the future?

• (Now, you KNOW I'm anything but concise!) But here goes . . . "17 Things is just the Thing to jump-start your energy and enthusiasm for teaching in a way that meets students where they live - and where they'll need to be able to work in their future."

Thank you for organizing this for us, Alicia! It has been really fun - AND educational, and collaborative, and all that web 2.0-type stuff!