TCEA+2010


 * TCEA 2010 - Session Summary & Comment**

Perhaps there's a better venue for capturing thoughts, impressions and good information from the conference....but I wanted to get my stuff down before I forget. Others are welcome to join in......

Wed., Feb. 10 - **INTERACT: Integrating Technology Realistically in the Classroom** The description of this session included Marzano strategies which captured my interest. Turns out to be a "bit" of false advertising...oh, well. Bascially, the presentors descrbed a summer technology camp conducted for teachers - teachers had to apply, principals had to recommende, accepted teachers were given technology (laptop, Ipod, and technology allowance) and training with the understanding that they would model integration on their campuses. The sessions were loosely based on Marzano strategies (collaboration, differentiation, etc.).

Based on "23 Things", "5 Things" were selected to introduce faculty into Web 2.0. Participation was mandated by the principal and lots of support provided. The 5 things included blogs, wikis, GoogleEarth, ning, and web searching, with an intent to familarize teachers with aspect of Web 2.0 that would promote efficiency and means of interjecting technology into teaching. Perhaps a version of this could be offered at campus level for interested teachers......
 * Moving the Staff into Web 2.0 [|www.dentonisd.org/ryeats]**

Thurs., Feb. 11 - **Print, Cut & Fold** by Jim Holland and Susan Anderson [] Holland demonstrated 18 different foldables made from powerpoint templates. At first, I thought "ho hum, I already know how to do that foldable", but then I started thinking about integrating technology skills (inserting text, clip art, rotating, etc.) and the idea kinda grew on me. Downloadable templates are online and he's got several books available for purchase.

Qwizdom - Vendor session Qwizdom sells classroom response systems and has a new piece of technology that I am really excited about - the Q7. The Qy is a RF tablet that works like an interactive white board system, but only needs a projector to work. The cost is about 1/4 of other interactive white boards, uses equipment most campuses already have and takes up the space of an 8 1/2" x 11" tablet. It works with Powerpoint, other 3rd party curriculum, and TAKS software can be purchased for a very nominal price. This is something I'll be looking into more seriously. Thoughts or experiences, anyone?

Main message here is to support the teachers and make their job easier. Simple things like set up email distribution lists, organize folders on the common drive, be available to assist teachers when they need it, be in the halls before and after school so teachers can grab you while issues are fresh on their mind. One key point! Differentiate for technology lessons for faculty just like you would differentiate content for students.
 * Tech Support for Exemplary Campuses**