Thing 2 -- Face of the Classroom

 westmiedtech.com

This word cloud represents my Website; westmiedtech.com. Visit the site to get the background and how I was inspired by edcampgr to really get it going.

The Web Presence of my Classroom 

 

Because of the nature of my work (district instructional tech specialist) I don't really have a classroom. But I have an extensive network of 'students' and professional connections that I need to teach, learn and share with. I need a place to store my presentations, reflect on conferences, report training summaries and collect useful resources.

My web presence allows me to easily keep things updated. Each time I add information it's automatically filed on my site. 

With my Website, I expand my network outside my district. Each time I post on my Website--which sadly isn't as often as I'd like, I announce it via Twitter to my extended network. I'm always pleasantly surprised, and a little proud when I get retweeted or commented on. Yes, I really do have knowledge and experience to share with others. :) It's a nice affirmation that helps motivate me to connect with others and continue researching and building resources.  


Finally, like any classroom teacher, my students need to be able to access my info any time. I prefer posting on my own site so that I'm not locked into the district. There's no issue of users needing passwords, and I can collaborate with my extended PLN more easily. Also, my intellectual property stays with me.  When I left my traditional classroom, I packed up loads of boxes (that still live in my basement!). My Website is far more mobile and I can add new 'files' simply by adding new tabs or pages. 

It's been a bit slow-going, but through experience I'm learning on my feet how to best organize, design and curate items.