In addition to adding the required feeds to my Google Reader, I added Science Daily: The Latest Science News, TUAW: The Unofficial Apple Weblog, CNN Education, and History.com: This Day in History. It was kind of a fun process. I was able to search local newspapers from various places I have lived as well as sports teams--just for fun. I knew about RSS feeds, but I guess I did not realize how prevalent they have become.
I commented on TUAW about a custom-made iOS stand. Some guy created a stand that holds an iPad, iPod Classic, and iPhone. It also has a slot for a pen and iPad dock connector (to the keyboard). I know it might seem silly, but it can really cut down on clutter, and help people from temporarily losing their devices.
What I Learned
As I expected, there was a lot of information coming from each of the feeds. I already visit some of the sites daily. Ever since I have been using Google Reader, I have been able to scan the articles more quickly to determine whether or not I want to read the whole thing.
One of the articles from CNN was written by Michelle Rhee, the former Washington DC superintendent. Her argument was that school districts should get rid of their "last in, first out" policy regarding layoffs. As the absolute low man on the totem pole (I was hired a little over a month ago), it is easy for me to agree with this. But it does make sense. Some veteran teachers are ineffective, while others break rules and get suspended. But when it comes time to layoff teachers, those teachers are safe, and the most recent hires are let go. While I was well aware of this policy, I did not know that such a big name was touting reform nationwide. I do not think she will be successful (at least not this year), but I sure hope she is!
Using Google Reader will make me better at my job. Articles are constantly being published about new hardware and software. I actively seek these articles out because I think they are fun to read. It is now also my job to look for new, better ways for teachers to teach, and students to learn--using technology. Google Reader will pull in a lot of the articles that I would have probably read anyway--but the whole process will be faster.
Yes Michelle Rhee is getting a lot of press. It will be interesting to see what happens. I think we will see more veteran teachers retire soon. There are still many very effective ones out there though. I am 49 and have taught 29 years and though I would like to retire when I am 50, I know that will not be possible. It sounded old to me when I was in my 20s, but now that I am soon to be entering my 50s that is not sounding so old anymore.
ReplyDeleteThe custom made stand sounds kind of neat since I have all these devices. Your desk does get cluttered.
I like your calendar on the side.
Your blog is really coming along.
Melissa
Thanks!
ReplyDelete