I saw Adam Frey (co-founder of Wikispaces) and tech guru Vicki Davis introduce Wikis two a room full of eager teachers wondering how to integrate this popular tech tool in their teaching. I had been introduced to them by our tech coach, Heidi Dudley, but at the time, I don't think I was prepared to absorb the info. Too bad...my kids have missed out!

Steve Dembo from Discovery Education did a hilarious presentation introducing web 2.0 ideas to novice techies. And if if you haven't checked out Wallwisher (wallwisher.com) you should. Its a great (by that I mean EASY) way to involve kids who may not leap at the chance to speak in front of the class in things like brainstorming or test review activities. I also learned about Blabberize (blabberizer.com) adds a goofy moving mouth and sound to any picture. Look out Heritage! My back-to-school-night presentation just went to the next level!

I finished up with a session on PLNs (professional learning networks). As the only band teacher in my building (and one of three in my district at the high school level), online learning networks intrigue me! As a result of this session, I now follow a few more music ed and advocacy folks and techies on Twitter and read a few more blogs than I did before.

I met with a colleague for coffee today to share notes on our ISTE experience. We agree that there is a ton of good tech now at our disposal. I'm excited to get going on Google docs, class blogs, and a PLN.

It will take the same as my wife's new vegetable garden: patience, attention, time, and getting a little dirty (making a few mistakes) along the way!