Thank you to my colleagues

I have enjoyed the ELC672 class, the final assignment has been a fun but difficult process.  I find myself trying to close the door to another class, while another class has started.  I realize that this is a common occurrence all over college campuses, but it has proven difficult for this high school principal.   Besides trying to keep up to date on my assignments, I am trying to run my school.  I know I am preaching to the Impact choir, but it helps just writing down my frustrations.  I am developing great friendships with my fellow impact administrators, and they have been able to keep me focused.  I guess this entry is a thank you to my colleagues.

What I have learned in ELC 672

When trying to decide what to write about for this assignment, I have struggled.  There have been a lot of worthwhile learning experiences during this class.  I will write about two different learning experiences and one overall learning thought during this blog entry.  One of the two moments was during the Web 2.0 assignment, and the other was during one of our guest speakers. 
The web 2.0 assignment challenged me to find resources outside my comfort zone.  I, like most people, use computers daily both at work and home.  During reflection about my time on the computer I determined that my usage consist of the same programs and websites with little variety.  The web 2.0 assignment forced me to explore different sites that can be used in my school.  I really enjoyed exploring Mindmeister and I immediately thought of different applications for teachers.  I will present this site during my next faculty meeting. 
The last guest speaker David Britton really made me think about the message I am sending.  The leader must model and open new thoughts and ideas.  Top down directives are not effective in the long run, and the future of my school needs a balanced approach.  I think David's message of giving tools and setting expectations is a key to being successful.  His thought process of making the technology so ingrained in the culture is a key to my success.  I often tell teacher not to reinvent the wheel, but I often find myself doing just that.  This has reaffirmed the belief that I must walk the walk and talk the talk when it comes to change. 
The combinations of the learning experiences made me realize change is difficult, but necessary.  I often think of myself as a digital native, but unfortunately I am not.  My abilities are somewhat above average, but in a school that wants to be the best, that is not enough.  I must always set aside time to explore and expose myself and my staff to various opportunities that exist. 
DOING  THE SAME THING OVER AND OVER AND EXPECTING DIFFERENT RESULTS IS INSANITY.