As I have been working through the on-line instructor coursework, I have most defnintely been challenged to learn the new material.  I am finding it interesting and I am excited that when I hear others talking "technology" I have somewhat of a clue now as to what they are talking about.  I have always enjoyed a challenge and am glad that I have been able to experience this new learning through the eyes of a student.  This will help me to remember that all students are coming to my class at different technology awareness levels and that I will not only need to differentiate my content, but also my technology instruction. 

I have found that Skyping will be extremely important for the students I work with.  Many have stated that our classroom works with their school age parent status because we are like a family and the students have a part of the day when everyone in the room understands where they are coming from.  They feel a part of something.  If someone is taking our coursework at home, I will need to work extra hard to be sure they are involed in forums, collaborative projects, live presentations, skping and journaling. 

iPad class

This past week I spent a day in our school district iPad full-day training.  I have to admit that I was excited because so much of what was being talked about I had already experienced either in this on-line instructor class or in other work that I had been involved in throughout the past year.  Working with technology has defnitely been a "step outside the box" situation for me and I am so glad that I have chosen to do so!  I am really looking forward to working with my students in new and exciting ways.

 On a funny side note, I was with my own four girls the other day and they were talking about skype.  One of my little sweeties (ok not so little anymore...they are all college and high school age) said in a very surprised tone, "Did you guys know Mom can do Skype all on her own now and doesn't even ask for my help to set it up!"

Skyping has become such an amazing tool for personal and professional use.  I have used Skype for personal reasons to communicate with my college-age children and family that lives out of town.  I also Skype with friends who live both near and far!  I am really excited to dabble into the Skype world for professional use.  I am planning on using for Skype mentors, epals, and reading buddies.  Since my students are School Age Parents, they can communicate with their mentors via Skpe, have epals who are in a similar situation, and reading buddies with a younger child to practice for use with their own child(ren).  I would also like to use Skype for guest speakers and with students who are on maternity or paternity leave or bed rest to feel a part of our classroom community.