Life Long Learning

TESOL ITALY :November 3-4, 2006 NATIONAL CONFERENCE

My presentation on Creating Cooperative Communities for your Classroom generated lots of interest and appreciation. Thanks everyone! The PPT slides can be downloaded here.
Summary:

This presentation looks at how teachers are adapting to the “ICT in EFL” scenario. It offers ideas on creating a blended environment though web-enhanced language learning communities.It examines the steps required for setting up three options which support learning:

• NICENET www.nicenet.org a web-based tool (Internet Classroom Assistant)
• MOODLE www.moodle.org a sophisticated course management system (CMS)
• WEBLOG www.blogger.com a flexible blog-based virtual learning environment (VLE)

It outlines the advantages and pitfalls of each bringing deeper understanding to interconnectedness and enhancing communication, constructing knowledge together and community-building strategies. Useful tips on the how to network, link to resources, provide learners with feedback and encourage group project work (in multi-cultural global settings) will be given. More efficient, effective and enjoyable joint learning experiences have become possible through the wealth of technology available. This talk shows how we can create a totally different type of classroom community and extend the reach of our classes.

NEWSLETTER: WEBTOO

I’ve been asked to author a new column for the Italy TESOL Newsletter.

This is a new corner to the newsletter – new web developments and their interesting and relevant application to our classroom has led TESOL Italy to expand it’s newsletter to include more on ICT. I am honoured that I have been invited to contribute this new column which will be well placed alongside Beth Ann Boyle’s brilliant webwatch.

I have decided to call it “Webtoo“.

My first article is on Social Bookmarking

It’s delicious! Get a taste of social bookmarking out Dec 2006 issue and available soon online from TESOL Italy site.