Reflection, Day 2

I have been interested in blogging for quite some time but in typical fashion did not feel that I had the time and energy.  I also know that I can't continue to take on new projects without letting something go. Additionally, we use Haiku in our district and I have found it cumbersome at my level.
At the end of the school year I talked about my Haiku concerns with my principal and told her of my desire to start a classroom blog, and we found a solution. I am glad that we are given time to work on our projects during class.  It is important to talk to my peers to help each other, and bounce ideas.   I am feeling positive about the work that I am doing and am excited that groundwork will be laid before school starts.   And, I appreciate the laid-back way that class starts; it is just what I need from a summer class.
As a  mother of four I have been a Common Sense Media fan for quite a while.  My youngest child is seven and being that she has three older siblings I am sure she is watching things that are not appropriate.  So, usually after the fact, I am looking up whatever show is concerning me on CSM and usually my mind is put at ease.  I think that it is a great tool for parents, but also for educators.  Until last night I hadn't paid attention to many of the other tabs but I think the apps tab might have what Heidi was looking for (kindergarten appropriate apps to recommend.)  I do not think that I have spoken about digital citizenship with my students, or if I have I am unaware.  In the past I have taken the approach that it is the media/tech's responsibility.  As I type this though I am realizing that that job shouldn't fall solely on one person.  Also, I like Adam's blog post about how most times it's a one shot deal, and it really shouldn't be.  I am thinking about it now and relating it to the spiral curriculum idea.  It's a much larger responsibility than I have been aware of but I also think that in my building it (may be a) quick early discussion, signing of a contract, and done deal.
As for the podcast, I wasn't able to listen so I had to read the transcript.  All of it makes perfect sense but as I think back to my own middle, high school and college years (and a lot of PD) lecture has been the way of the world.  Moving away from that would be a huge societal shift.  Working together can be hard for some students, too.  I use turn and talk constantly in my classroom, and some students can dominate the sharing of thinking so it takes management to make sure this is an effective tool for my students.  Also, sometimes in PD, even though we all know best practice, I am irritated when I have to share my thinking with others, or get up and move around, find a different partner, etc.