Welcome to EDIT 2000!

The purpose of this course is to help you to explore the tools that can support teaching and learning in a P-12 classroom. As you learn about these tools you will focus on the educational processes that these tools support -- not the technical skills that you acquire. In other words, this is not a course about learning computer skills in isolation; it is a course that will encourage you to find appropriate uses for technological tools in the P-12 classroom.

In order to find and document these appropriate uses of technology, you will work independently, in partners, and in groups to prepare educational activities for specific curriculum topics. You will play the role of a classroom teacher and use your content knowledge, understanding of teaching and learning strategies, and your technology skills to develop real applications for the various tools explored during the semester. Your final product will be a web-based set of activities to teach specific curriculum objectives.

The instructor for your EDIT 2000 is Gretchen Thomas. The syllabus will give you specifics on what to expect during the semester. Know the syllabus well -- there could be a quiz!

The only materials you'll need for this course are a key drive and a 3-ring binder to keep track of handouts. We do not use a textbook - you will be provided with readings throughout the semester.

So, what does technology integration look like? Harrison County High School in Gulfport, Mississippi is a wonderful example of students and teachers using technology tools for learning. If that's not enough, see how Mary Scroggs Elementary School in Chapel Hill, North Carolina integrates technology to help younger children learn.

What questions do you have about using technology? What are some things you would like to be able to do with your computer that, for whatever reason, you are unable to do?

If you'd like to earn a late pass to use this semester, schedule an appointment to stop by my office to pick one up by Thursday, August 23. I'm in rm 603C. It's a great way for you to learn where to find me and for me to learn more about you when you drop by. I'll even have a "goodie bag" for you.

For Tuesday:

1. Turn in your student information sheet.
2. Complete your "question amnesty card" and turn it in.
3. Purchase a USB drive or clean up an old one (i.e. delete old files, etc.)
4. Sign up for our class Facebook group: EDIT 2000 8:00 am Fall '07 or EDIT 2000 11:00 am Fall 2007 and submit a picture of yourself. Make sure to caption it with your full name. If you need assistance with this, please let me know.
5. Schedule an appointment to pick up a late pass.