I remember Lisa saying that she had an adult student recently that either put his head down and cried or walked out or something rather dramatic - or so I thought at the time. Well today I can sympathize. Today I was once again humbled by my lack of computer savy and more importantly computer patience. I wanted to scream and or cry or punch the screen. But I know that the computer is just an object and something in the disconnect between my brain and my fingers I am not giving it the right commands. Technology is not evil - but it can sure bring me to my knees rather quickly. Maybe the best thing I learned today was about myself - how angry and frustrated I can get and how quickly it can sour my mood. I need to get over myself. But it is always good to take a look at oneself out of ones comfort zone. Today I can certainly recognize the way some of my students must feel when they put effort in to work and then have nothing to show for it because of some error they have made - wrong assignment, assignment not collected, computer litch, etc. Hopefully I will extend the same helping hand and kind words to them that the entire class did for me today.

As to my future use of the new skills I have learned this week. . . .First I will be directing my AP class to the WebQuest within the first week or so of class since the cultivation of close reading skills is an essential part of the curriculum. That is feel really goood about. Having created something that is immediately useful. Secondly I plan to have my class websites up and running by the time school starts so I will be able to post assignments, calendars, and handouts online. I will be so happy not to waste paper copying endless extras. Also I think it will eliminate some the excuses about not getting the work. And finally I intend to use the wiki with my AP students to extend discussion past the parameters of the classroom, especially since the fall class ends well before the AP exam in May and the spring class instruction before the exam is truncated.

I will not be using Photo Shop since I have not had enough practice to be helpful to my students even if the school installed it all computers. I will play with Photoshop Express for my family and friends. And just maybe I will be able eventually to add photo and other art to my online work.

I am still amazed by how much I have learned in such a short time. Is there a way we can continue to talk to each other through this website????