Diggin' that new Diigo!

Gourd Scoop

Technology is fluid!  That is the lesson today. Thank you Amy for bringing it to Dr. Pierce's attention. I just thought I was getting old, but now I know there is the new Diigo and it's in Links I Like space and I'm back on track!

PRISMS on a Google Site

On the one hand, and on the other hand...

This assignment was such a hot and cold love affair. On the one hand I wanted to achieve raging success because I would like to use a Google Site with my research classes next semester. BUT, on the other hand the learning curve was steep and made me question what craziness I was getting into!  Nothing made sense to me, and the jargon, which makes perfectly good sense to Google, made no sense to me as I was clicking around and trying to figure out what did what.

I chose a template that resembled note paper since there is a fair amount of documentation with research projects. Since it was to be used as a PRISMS website, I began preparing the sidebar to hold the packets I use for the class. My information as a teacher is there two-fold: first as the Who Is Mrs. Mohr which explains what I do and what it means to the student. Then, in a subpage, I get specific about credentials and interests...hopefully in a friendly way with a the resume, the organizations I champion, and the school phone numbers and email. On this page I linked the information in the text, whereas in the other packets the handouts were listed as files at the bottom since it seemed more appropriate to list the handouts plainly at the bottom where there could be no mistaking where they were.

My email is noted at the bottom every page. Right now, there are three packets showing but ultimately there will be 8 packets--each specializing in a different aspect of the research process. On aspect I particularly like is the fact that the subpages can be accessed under the text for the pages, so cross-referencing seems to be effortless.

What excites me about Google Sites is the possibility that I can use it as a vehicle to allow students to be more self-directed and self-pacing. As you can see I kind of danced around trying different links, inserting images, files, sidebar pages and subpages. It is still a work in progress, but the possibilities are clear to me. The Countdown in the sidebar is a shining star idea in my opinion and will be used immediately in my classroom if only as a classroom poster.

The technology standards touched by this assignment are #1 and #2 where students are inspired and encouraged to use technology to advance their learning, AND teachers design, develop, and evaluate authentic learning experiences. A student working on a research topic would really be energized to move forward at his or her own pace.

Now, how can this be used for gourd stuff?  Right now the Virginia Lovers' Gourd Society is beholding to the American Gourd Society for it's webspace. It is personal, and limited in that it relies on a webmaster and does not allow for member involvement. Perhaps with a Google Site, members can engage with other freely and build gourdpatches locally.