Thing 2

I am a completely novice blogger. I have zero experience in reading or writing a blog. In the past I have gravitated toward literature and websites with statistical, objective, and research proven information. I am looking forward to the personal aspect that blogging presents. Exchanging resources, ideas, and personal experiences with fellow students and professionals is intriguing. I was surprised with the level of ease in creating my blog. I found it extremely helpful that our instructor demonstrated how to setup our blog in class and was available to provide assistance to those who needed it. I opted to post under my full name so I may incorporate my blog into a professional portfolio. My blog name “Press zero for operator” refers to my level of inexperience with blogging and web 2.0 tools and my need for assistance as I travel through the technology highway.

Creating my avatar using the Doppelme website was simple and entertaining. I enjoyed the diverse selection of facial expressions and features I was able to choose from. My avatar shares some aspects of my personality and physical appearance. We both have long brown hair and brown eyes in common. I selected a colorful dress for my avatar to wear, which is my favorite type of clothing. I also gave my avatar a dog to represent my love for animals and the fact that my own dog is never far from my side.

Thing 1

After exploring “7 ½ Habits of Lifelong Learners,” I absolutely agree that “attitude is everything.” The easiest of the 7 ½ habits for me is accepting responsibility for my own learning. Accepting responsibility begins with acknowledging that education is a lifelong process. Success depends on placing a high priority on learning and requires a daily commitment. Early mornings and late nights are sometimes a necessity. I am often tempted to hit the snooze button when the alarm goes off at 5:00 AM or watch an extra hour of television instead of pursuing academic activities. I realize those types of choices, however small; will ultimately determine my effectiveness as a future teacher and a lifelong learner.

“Intellectual growth should commence at birth and cease only at death.” – Albert Einstein

One of the habits that I look forward to strengthening is number six “Use technology to your advantage.” My current technical knowledge is basic and in some cases primitive. I am excited to gain and apply new technical knowledge and skills to increase my effectiveness as a student and prospective educator. My greatest expectations for personal gain from Web 2.0 include; building additional resources to strengthen, expand, and add diversity to my learning and teaching toolbox.

I am looking forward to creating and maintaining my blog. Blogging presents an exciting opportunity to share and collaborate with fellow students and professionals. My confidence regarding my technical ability has already increased after the successful and relatively easy setup experience. I am eager to begin utilizing the knowledge and skills gained from this course.