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Permalink Reply by Blanca Duarte Martini on July 11, 2011 at 8:45am

We invite you to share your thoughts about the day. Did you learn something today that you did not know before? Did one statement stand out more than the rest? How do you feel social media has impacted society, teaching and learning and the way you learn today?

Permalink Reply by Cynthia Cullen on July 12, 2011 at 5:59pm

I in no way consider myself an expert in the use of technology in the classroom, nor do I consider myself a novice either.  I use powerpoints and youtube to create my lessons.  I have a well-developed eboard (teacher website) which I am now transitioning to blackboard.  I have over 45 podcasts I have created for my students to help them learn. I have used wikispaces for students to collaborate on projects that benefit all the students.  I have created a national wiggio site for AP Human Geography teachers to share ideas and lessons.  But I have to say I felt extremely "behind the times" at this conference - and excited at the same time.  Thanks to all of you who helped open my eyes to the possibilities of social media.  I admit to being "afraid, wary, suspicious" of its usefulness and purpose in high school education - but as I was driving home I also remember when cell phones came out and I resisted getting one for the longest time - for the life of me now I can't remember why - something about a ridiculous luxury or waste of time - who knows.  I guess one of the sources of discomfort is the idea that anyone really cares what I have to say.  The one message that has resounded from both days of this conference is that the era of technology/social media that we live in is one where everyone can have  voice.  This is wonderful and daunting at the same time.  I hope that I can call on this community to help point me in the right direction in choosing the right social media venue for ideas I have in educating and motivating my students.  Thanks again!