Basic Training (Mandatory Meeting)

How It Works

You are in charge of your learning in this program. We have identified the 10 exercises for you to do over the course of the program, but you decide when you do them.  Drill sergeants will be available to help as needed or via Open Lab times--just email your commanding officer to set up a time to get some individualized training.  You document your progress through updating your blog, which is Exercise 1.

Each exercise will be posted on this blog.  There will be a brief explanation of your new category of tool and a description of a few options.  Choose one of the tools to try, then create a blog post linking your project/product with a short reflection on the process and how you might use the tool in your classroom.

Your blog will be linked to the class blog so the other recruits can follow your progress and learn from your ideas.  You will need to follow at least three of your fellow recruits' blogs.  You will also be responsible for posting three comments about on three other recruit's blogs.

After finishing boot camp, you will share a short presentation with the staff at your building, giving an overview of the web 2.0 tools you used and demonstrating one or two of your favorites. 

Setting Up Your Blog

Here are directions for creating your own blog using Blogger, which is tied to your MV Gmail account.

1.  Log in to your MV Gmail account.  Look for the tab at the very top that says More. Select Blogger in the drop down menu.

 

2.  Set up your Blogger account.  Enter in your desired user name.

3.  Create your Web 2.0 blog.  Give it a title and a web address.

4.  Customize your blog by editing the All About Me section.  (Click on the arrow next to your display name in the upper right corner, then choose Blogger Profile.  Click the Edit Profile button.)  You can upload a profile photo and add a short bio.  Remember that your blog is public, so keep it short and simple. 
5. Customize your Template.

6.  Create your first post.  Be sure to include the following:

• What motivated you to become one of our recruits?
• What you hope to learn about in Tech Boot Camp?
• How would you describe your current comfort level with technology?  What tools do you use already in your classroom (if any)?

7.  Email your drill sergeant the link to your blog (through MVGmail).  That way we can link your blog to ours for other recruits to follow you.

8.  Follow our blog.  Under Reading List, click on Add.  Copy and paste in this URL: http://mvtechbootcamp.blogspot.com.  Now we can follow each other!