Digital Projects for 21st Century Classrooms – FETC 2010
Submitted by Lisa on Fri, 01/22/2010 - 9:40am
As we all know, going to conferences is as much about learning at sessions as it is about meeting people and making connections.
Before I even stepped foot in the Orlando Convention Center for FETC, I had planned on attending Howie DiBlasi’s (@hdiblasi) spotlight session, “i-Create: Digital Projects for the 21st Century Classroom.”
What I hadn’t planned on was connecting with someone who was so incredibly passionate about educational technology. I had the pleasure of meeting with Howie for a video blog interview (stay tuned to the blog), but it was the conversations and personal connection I made with him off camera that I will never forget. He impressed me more than he knows (thanks Howie!) and I will continue to follow his work from this day forward.
Howie and I had stimulating and inspiring conversations about the importance and significance of using project-based learning (infused with technology) in the classroom. Part of my passion for this topic comes from the new product I’ve been working on here at SimpleK12 that provides 100+ pre-created technology projects for core curriculum teachers to use with their students… the other part of my passion comes from truly believing that students need these critical skills to succeed in today’s workplace (I’m a living, breathing example!).
Howie’s presentation (one of many he presented at FETC) focused on great projects and web tools to connect students, teachers, and classrooms across the country –“Global Collaboration Projects.” The PowerPoint presentation he used, jam-packed with tons of great resources, is found on his website (drhowie.com) and I highly recommend taking a peak.
Howie gives a plethora of different projects and tools (that’s why you should check out the PowerPoint), but here were some I particularly liked:
EdHeads
FlatClassrooms
Digital History
My Hero
As I mentioned, I learned a lot from Howie’s presentation…but nothing beats meeting with him one-on-one.
Without him even knowing, he taught me that by loving what you do and doing what you love, you can surely make a difference.
Who did you meet at FETC that added value to your experience at the conference? What did they teach you?
Comments
This is a good news, I think it will help you in your projects. Asigurari locuinte
Just wanted to say "hi." It was nice meeting you at the conference and this weekend at Kohl's. Keep in touch!!
:)
Lisa,
You are tooooo kind...
I am sooooo lucky to be able to share my passion and what I love to do...after a 20 year career in the classroom, 10 as a business owner and 14 as a CIO..now RETIRED...
The past 2 years have been a BLAST. Teaching and learning from everyone...every week in a different state and location to share the passion and see teachers eyes light up and understand why 21st Century skills are so important to our kids. It was GREAT to meet you and share.. I am so lucky to be able to do what I love...and tks for sharing your passion...We are so blessed to make a difference in the world of education.
Carry the torch.....
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