EdTech: Networking
Professional Networks: Connect to Others & Learn New Things
If you have not heard of the Microsoft Educator Network, you are missing out. It is one part professional learning network, one part teacher lesson repository, and all around way cool! There is a lot, and when I say a lot, I mean a plethora... a wealth of information for you to discover and utilize consistently. Let's examine the features of the MEN site and how you can improve professionally.
Account Sign-Up
Educator Community Menu
MEC home
You will see the educator community menu to the left, a main menu at the top, and notification and help buttons to the right along with a secondary menu by your account name.
MIE programs
Many of these take considerable time to complete but it can be accomplished with determination.
Badges, points, & certificates
- The first group is on activities and programs for badges on learning paths on general Microsoft education and Microsoft products.
- There are courses that promote Microsoft applications and technology integration.
- If you are a social promoter, there are a few badges you can attain.
- Tee last group is on Skype. Get badges for Skyping!
Courses & resources
You can search from simple how-to videos, webinars, online learning paths for certification, and face-to-face training opportunities. These webinars and learning paths keep track of your usage and will award you badges on the completed series. Most, though, have assessments at the end.
My personal faves: The Learning Paths on Microsoft in the Classroom, Windows 8, and
21st Century Learning DesignSkype in the Classroom
With Skype in the Classroom, you can find virtual field trips, Skype lessons or collaborations. You can create your own when you feel up to the tech challenge or participate in a Mystery Skype. There are also many guest speakers that can't wait to teach and inform your students on their own professional careers. There are many possibilities on how to incorporate Skype into your lesson.
Find a Lesson
A word of caution: use the filters to narrow your search, specifically the language of the lesson.
You can also create and share a lesson of yours through this area! Share it with others so others can learn and benefit from your lesson.
Share your Expertise
Remember, these are plenty of apps to try. But, it will be a personal preference as to the one or two you decide to utilize in the class. You should think about the ease of use and the needs of the students in your class. You need not use all, but explore for the best option.
Cynthia L. Piña
District Technology Trainer/Specialist @ Laredo ISD
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Email: clpina@laredoisd.org
Website: https://smore.com/u/pinatechtrainer
Location: Laredo, TX, United States
Phone: 956.273.1341
Twitter: @pinatechtrainer