Is this really going to help me? Do I really need to do this? These are the questions that still resonate in my mind as I write my first blog post.
I’m not sure that I have much to contribute because, as my tagline suggests, I’m too busy “managing digital overload”. But I think that’s part of the reason why I’ve started this blog. I need help managing digital overload.
I’m in the second year of a special assignment teaching position with the Algoma District School Board in Ontario, Canada. My title is JK-12 Data & Technology. Prior to that, I was in a classroom position for 17 years teaching mostly mathematics at the high school level.
One thing that’s been hitting me over the head like a sledgehammer these past 2 years is that learning and teaching is changing because of digital. Unlike when I attended elementary and high school, everything that we need is out there and readily accessible. The challenge that faces us is what should that learning and teaching process look like?
So… that’s my question… that’s my journey. I’m not sure how often I will blog. I think that will depend on how much I learn along the way and how many questions crop up from “managing digital overload”.
I have always found that the best ideas come from a collaboration of many. I feel like I need to do this in order to show other students, teachers, and my own kids how valuable this kind of learning can be.
Looking forward to learning with all of you. Thanks for reading.
Joe Caruso's Blog 
Hello Joe! Welcome to the wonderful world of blogging! I look forward to learning and sharing with you. Our ideas are only as good as the people we share them with. In regards to “digital overload”, I would suggest everyone feels it, but in my experience, it’s best to pick one tool you really want to learn well and make that your focus. Once you are comfortable with that tool, move on to the next. I believe a scaffolded approach is the key. My digital journey looked something like SMART Technologies- Apple Tech- Twitter- Blogging- Website design- leveraging tech to make the world a better place. The more classroom tested exemplars you can provide, the better!
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Really like that idea of classroom exemplars. Teachers always want practical ideas
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Whoops didn’t quite finish that thought… Still learning this platform lol. Teachers want to see practical ideas not just listen to theory. Exemplars also give up-and-comers a little push.
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Absolutely! Most training I received was application, but quite honestly, teachers will embrace an application and learn it themselves if they see HOW it can be used. That’s where student exemplars are invaluable. Can you leverage classroom teachers to share student examples with more reluctant teachers? Here’s my website full of student exemplars, lessons and ideas https://mrcssharesease.wordpress.com Feel free to use and share! Happy New Year!
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Excellent! Thanks for sharing. Enjoy the rest of the holidays
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Thanks Doug. This is a great place to find other bloggers to follow. Looking forward to it!
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Welcome to the wonderful world of blogging! Can’t wait to learn along with you 🙂
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Likewise Heather! Thanks.
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It is awesome to see you leading by example, Joe. If nobody shares, nobody learns.
#OSSEMOOC is running a mini-MOOC for beginning bloggers in February if you are interested in meeting more educators determined to share their learning and to build a PLN.
Congratulations. I look forward to learning with you in 2016!
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Will keep my eye on that. Thank you and enjoy the rest of the holiday
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