Thing #23 Summary - Done, but not quite

As I went back through all of my explorations of the 23 things, I realize that I have come a VERY LONG way in just a few short weeks (24 days!) I am no longer afraid to try new things on my computer or on the Internet, and I now understand the techno-terms I've been hearing for so long!
1. What were your favorite discoveries or exercises on this learning journey?

I absolutely loved MOST of the time I spent exploring and fell in love with most tools. A few of my favs are Library Thing, Mashups (trading cards and mosaics), Rollyo, Delicious, YouTube, TeacherTube, and Google tools. I also love the Common Craft videos and will look for new videos in the future. I absolutely can no longer live without Delicious, Google tools and my RSS reader.


2. How has this program assisted or affected your lifelong learning goals?

As stated above in my introduction, I am no longer afraid of trying new technology on my computer and the Internet. I have SOOOOO many ideas to use technology to my advantage that I cannot wait for school to start, so I can use these ideas and tools on my students and fellow faculty. Maybe now, I can mentor and help my fellow teachers / students more in the area of technology.


3. Were there any take-a-ways or unexpected outcomes from this program that surprised you?

What surprises me the most is that I am actually excited about Web 2.0 applications and implementing many of the 23 things into my library program. I've never been a lover of technology, but now I'm hooked for good!
Also, I am amazed that so many of the tools are free, or have a low membership/usage fee.


4. What could we do differently to improve upon this program’s format or concept?

I agree with Alice's idea (I think it was Alice) of putting an expected time reference that a newbie would need to complete the assignment at the beginning of each activity. I realize however, that it might be impossible, because people come in at all different skill levels.
One other thing to mention is that on thing # 17, the video created by Bruce Goodner made Rollyo much earsier to visualize its use for the library/school and to understand its concept. Maybe the link to his video should be moved up to the introduction portion of this actvity.

5. If we offered another discovery program like this in the future, would you choose to participate?
I would jump at the chance to participate in more programs like this because the exploration and discovery format is best for me. BUT NOT IN SUCH A SHORT AMOUNT OF TIME. I really would have benefitted from more time to play with each tool before moving on to the next. I need time to process what I've learned before having new information thrown at me. The time crunch really pushed me to my outer limits.

6. How would you describe your learning experience in ONE WORD or in ONE SENTENCE, so we could use your words to promote 23 Things learning activities?
Totally Awesome!

7. Now go and comment on some of the other Players' blogs?
I have enjoyed blogging with my new friends and can't wait to read and comment on some of the blogs I entered in my RSS reader.

Though this project is complete, I am not finished exploring and discovering more about technology. As my TeacherTube video showed, we are living in exponential times of growth in technology. I don't want to miss out on anymore and be that far behind ever again. Here's to life long learning!!!!!
Thanks for the experience! I've come a long way, baby!