Man, oh man, does this format have merit! Teacher-driven professional development that’s both relevant and tailored to attendees’ needs and interests.
I attended a session on classroom-useful Web 2.0 tools, another on the new virtual course requirement for Virginia schools, and I facilitated a session on using Social Media platforms to engage students, teachers, parents, and professionals in the field. A Google Doc with notes from all the sessions is available, so peruse for yourself.
I was impressed with the high-engagement of attendees – and the willingness of everyone to share and speak from experience when the opportunity presented. I walked away from the experience with great respect for the tech-infused instruction happening in our region – in congruence with sound pedagogy, a few new tools in my belt for personal and professional use, and knowledge of how to organize an UNconference format for replication elsewhere on other topics.
Miscellaneous shout outs before before I crash:
- Glen Allen High School is one gorgeous facility.
- Many thanks to Katie Grootegoed and her fellow Henrico ITRTs for planning and hosting
- Moe’s lunch hit the spot! Thank you, sponsors! Henrico Education Foundation and State Farm Insurance.
- Spotsylvania crew, thank you for the lunch conversation
- Sarah Schmoyer, go MWC (never UMW, right?)!
- Cathryn Myers, good to run into you after 15 years. What a hoot!
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