Kickoff Session

How It Works

You are in charge of your learning in this program. We have identified the 10 activities for you to do over the course of the program, but you decide when you do them.  Camp counselors will be available to help as needed or via Open Lab times at Highview (Wednesdays from 12-2).   You document your progress through updating your blog, which is Activity 1.

Each activity will be posted on this blog.  There will be a brief explanation of your new category/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 campers can follow your progress and learn from your ideas.  You will need to follow at least five of your fellow campers' blogs.  You will also be responsible for posting three comments on three other camper's blogs.

After finishing summer 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 by clicking Blogger NOT Google+.
3.  Enter in your desired display name (First and Last Name) and uncheck "feature announcements."

4.  Create your blog by clicking New Blog.  Give it a title: First and Last Name + any additional customization and a web address also including your First and Last Name.
5. Pick a template (you can browse many more templates and customize your blog later.

6.  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. 
7. Customize your Template.

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

• What motivated you to become one of our summer campers?
• What you hope to learn about in Summer Camp 2.0?
• How would you describe your current comfort level with technology?  What tools do you use already in your classroom (if any)?

9.  Email your camp counselor the URL link to your blog (through MVGmail).  That way we can link your blog to ours for other campers to follow you.

10.  Follow our blog.  Under Reading List, click on Add.  Copy and paste in this URL: http://2013summercamp20.blogspot.com/.  Now we can follow each other!