New job...

OK everyone....moving to here.

Twitter and Iran

I've been mesmerized by the effect of twitter on the situation in Iran. The postings have been more dramatic than any movie:

only official march today is valli asr. others may be a trap - avoid others -

from our group 1 is confirmed arrested - 2 still missing - last night they attack his family house -

we are moving location - seperating - situation in Tehran is tense - cant explain

our street is quiet now - we cannot move tonight but must move asap when dawn starts

Most of the news outlets seem to be reporting based off of twitter. Is this the start of the one person--one broadcaster movement?

Youtube music

This use of Youtube is rather profound.  The genesis of the idea is so simple.  This would be a great classroom assignment.

Technology and Collaboration

This video should be shown at every presentation about technology.  Students would LOVE to do this and it teaches so much about not only technology but also diversity, music, culture, etc...

Watch it and share it!

Starting new assignment

I'm developing a new project.  Comments needed and welcome.

Yom Hashoah

I'm trying to really create more open-ended assignments.  I'm also seeing if I can get rolling deadlines to work where a student works until they are done.  I sometimes think I need more unifying structures (like contests, exams, etc...) but I also think they can sometimes stifle creativity.

Lots to struggle with.  Since these courses are cancelled for next year it is hard to keep the process fresh.

Day 2

Today's blogging challenge is to write a list post.  I thought I would write about why some of my students are having a challenging week with my assignment.

• Students are challenged when there are no directions.
• I don't have the answers to all of their questions.
• They have to rely on their classmates for help.
• They might not get it right.

This creates some anxiety.  But if they do figure out the puzzles they have a greater sense of accomplishment.  How to get that balance between challenging students and frustrating them?