Comments on: Learning new stuff and not looking stupid

By: Brooke S.

Brooke S. — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 22:03:20 +0000

It’s comforting and reassuring to know that novice and expert teachers are all learning when it comes to technology. Staying informed about new software, hardware, and web tools require everyone, no matter the experience, to constantly be learning. I would much rather share in my learning experiences in a community setting, rather than by myself!

By: Erin B

Erin B — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 14:35:08 +0000

Having colleagues and other communities to collaborate with can help us expand our understanding and use of new technology. They are a great support and looking as though you do not know everything is ok. We are all there to help each other.

By: Carolyn B.

Carolyn B. — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 01:17:24 +0000

It sounds as if your professional development session was a true example of a community of learners. By learning with each other we open ourselves up to the opportunity to look at things from different perspectives, which furthers ideas and leads to new questions and new ideas and answers. I feel I am often learning on my feet when it comes to technology, no matter how well prepared I think I am for the lesson. Learning in a collaborative environment has so many advantages, it is great for students of all ages. I imagine it was inspiring and helped to create a risk free environment for those attending your professional development session to see that their presenter is a lifelong learner.

By: Erin B

Erin B — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 00:27:38 +0000

I tell my 8th graders all the time that we are learning together. I teach them new things, and they teach me new things. I am not afraid to stand in front of my classroom every day and make a mistake- they actually like it when i do because i become more “human” to them. If they see me make a mistake and learn from it, then they realize that it is OK for them to make mistakes and learn from it as well.
I have a poster in my room that reads “life is all about making mistakes and learning from them”. I refer to it all the time when my students get frustrated.
I am learning to use new technology (such as blogs and wiki’s) and i am making many mistakes! The only way i will learn is by fixing what i did wrong and communicating with fellow educators about how to use the technology.

By: Brooke S.

Brooke S. — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 22:30:33 +0000

As a kindergarten teacher, it’s my job to encourage students to try new things, like reading, adding, and helping fellow classmates. However, it’s also my job to make sure that they understand that it’s okay if they fail. It’s a part of life, no matter what the age. I think the same is true in your situation. You must try new things, and sometimes fail, in order to succeed. I have found that the best way to learn something new is to teach someone else. Learning new technology can be very scary to many, but if we never make attempts to learn it, our students won’t reap the benefits of learning in a different way.

By: Louise Maine

Louise Maine — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 21:53:26 +0000

I think that many people don’t try things because they think they need to be an expert and that is unfortunate - things change and we continually learn. Even in elluminate it is very different when you do have people there and things happen (there is always so much that can happen.) I always think it is much better when we are all learners and share!