Another term, another course, and another dip into the vast world of educational technology. I am very excited for EC&I 831 as I have a love/hate relationship with Social Media. It intrigues me but at the same time, there are many days when I realize my Facebook addiction is a real issue and debate leaving my social media behind (and then I laugh at my weakness and find a quiz to determine what type of fairy wings I should have….)
For our first post, we have been asked to start thinking about our major project topic. We have two options for our project: (a) integration/development of social media or open educational resources into our teaching/school or (b) learn something new and share our progress online through social media, videos, and our blog.
In looking at these options, I am torn. I have been looking for a great way to integrate social media into my classroom and connect with my students in a manner that is unique and relevant to their daily lives and, after our discussions in EC&I 834 about open education sources, I have been thinking about how I can create courses that are more openly available. I also really like the idea of using this course to encourage me to learn something that I may be putting off as I have not have had enough motivation to start (or finish) on my own. Ideas that I can think of on the top of my head including learning how to sew better (I can do some very basic things) or maybe to gain an understanding of a new language so that I can better connect with some of my new students in their native languages (we have 3 new students this year who speak primarily Spanish).
What option are you choosing? What direction are you thinking of heading?
If I go with the first option, would you like to like to see open educational resources based on Social 9 or a math course (I’m thinking maybe Precalculus 30 or Workplace and Apprenticeship 10)?
Kara Taylor's Blog 
Hi Kara, great post. I also struggle with the social media world and finding a balance. I don’t want it to consume too much of my time because I have two little ones who are growing up in front of my eyes. Having said that, I think that kids need a model of healthy interactions with technology as it will be an ever present part of their reality.
If you do decide to study Spanish please tweet at me or write me on my blog. I acquired Spanish as a second language and I have also taught Spanish as a second language. I will be happy to help you through my blog, your blog or on twitter if you decide to choose Spanish.
Colleen Strauch
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