Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Fall Again? It's Apple Time!

Fall 2011

This summer we received a gift of 60 iPads.  The 'seed' was planted in late spring.  We did some nurturing of the soil, pulled a few weeds, watered a few dreams and developed our growth and harvesting plan!  Last week the choice tablets were distributed to faculty and staff - and the growth spurt has begun!

Seattle Academy has a gift for grassroots ownership.  With minimal apps on the iPads we are modeling inquiry based exploration.  Faculty are encouraged to share their experiences and create foundational practices that support and enhance their teaching and learning.  Together we will chronicle the seasons through the use of a Moodle resource course and forums, shared research through Diigo groups, collaborative sharing through Google Sites and Google Docs, and a perhaps a collaborative app or two!

Our first focus meeting was held today.  These focus groups provide an opportunity to ask questions, comment, share new expertise, bring forward challenges, and engage the possibilities.  All were asked to share their thoughts and discoveries in a forum.  We are a learning community on a journey and I'm excited to see what paths and trails we will be exploring!

On Ward through the Orchard!


Oh! The Places You’ll Go!
by the incomparable Dr. Seuss


Congratulations!
Today is your day.
You’re off to Great Places!
You’re off and away!

You have brains in your head.
You have feet in your shoes.
You can steer yourself any direction you choose.
You’re on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the guy who’ll decide where to go.



(photo from Stone Garden in Philadelphia, ISTE 2011)

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Around the corner from our school is a closet coffee front aptly named BTG, Bedlam to Go! That's the educational adventure - creating a learning atmosphere that encourages a bit of chaotic creativity and insightful reflection where ever you may be! Learn! Grow! Play!