What is 23 Things?
23 Things is an independent learning project that encourages participants to take control of their own learning through online exploration and play. The program is web-based and not tied to a particular computer, so you can work anywhere and any time you have Internet access.
This course is based on the 23 Things class developed by Jackie Campbell and Carol Mayer at Wayne RESA. They have generously shared their content and ideas with Muskegon ISD. Their course, ” Wayne RESA’s 23 Things” is based on The Learning 2.0 program originally designed by Helene Blowers, Technology Director, Public Library of Charlotte & Mecklenburg County, and has been modified for use by Wayne RESA.
How does this course work?
We’ll introduce a new web 2.0 topic each week along with activities related to the topic. The activities will help you understand the topic for the week. After completing the activity, you will post to your blog.
I already have a blog. Do I have to use a new one?
Yes, you’ll need to have a blog just for this course so that the facilitator can easily track your progress as you move through the 23 things.
Do I have to do the 23 Things in order?
Yes.
Why should I learn about web 2.0?
Web 2.0 is a phrase coined in 2004. It refers to the fact that today’s Internet is an interactive medium rather than just a place to get information. Our students are using Web 2.0 tools every day, so it’s important to understand how these tools can be used effectively for teaching and learning. And, it’s going to be fun!
What are some of the Web 2.0 tools we’ll be exploring?
The list of tools we’ll address includes (but is not limited to): blogs, wikis, RSS, social bookmarks, online photo editing and sharing tools, tags, podcasting, Google docs, online video, copyright, Creative Commons, and Voicethread.
Can I get SB-CEU or grad credit for this course?
Yes, you can earn 6.0 SBCEUs or 2 grad credits upon completion of the course.
Who can participate in the program?
Any educator within Muskegon Area ISD can participate. It is important to understand, however, that 23 Things is a rigorous program requiring intermediate computer skills.
How much time will each “Thing” require?
We estimate that each of the 23 things will take about 1 ½ to 2 hours, but obviously, that will vary with the activities and individual participants.
What about the “Extension” activities?
The extension activities are there for those participants who might already know about a topic and want to do more, or for those who just want to do more on a topic because of interest. They are not required.
What do I need to participate?
High-speed Internet access to connect to the sites used in this program (some sites may be blocked at your school and will have to be accessed from another location); comfort and skill to independently navigate the Internet, access email, and create online accounts; and motivation to learn – no one will be there prodding you along.
How long do I have to complete the program?
Thirteen weeks – starting October 12, 2009 and ending January 11, 2010. A reasonable goal is to cover two or three things per week, but you have the flexibility to move at your own pace. Please don’t wait until the end of the time frame to do the work however. The program will remain online through the winter, but will not be monitored by the project facilitator after January 11, 2010.
How will my progress be monitored?
You write about each Thing you complete on your own blog (which we initially create for you), and the project facilitator reads and tracks all the participant blogs. If you are taking this class for SB-CEU or grad credits, you will also be required to complete a spreadsheet tracking the times that you logged in and out of your computer to participate in the class. A spreadsheet will be sent to you at the beginning of the class.
How much do I have to write in my blog posts?
Each blog post must reflect on the Thing you have completed. While we don’t expect a dissertation on every Thing, we do expect thoughtful reflection and active participation that is clear in the post. Single line posts or those that show lack of participation will not be considered sufficient.
Keep in mind that anyone can read your blog, it is public – not private. We expect that your posts are thoughtful, respectful, and appropriate. Be very careful using names of individuals, etc. Be also certain that you follow copyright guidelines when posting or uploading content.
Who will see my blog?
Links to all the participants’ blogs will be listed on the 23 Things site so that anyone can read them or comment. Only the facilitator, however, will know who owns each blog – unless, of course, the blog’s title gives a hint about the owner’s identity. You have the opportunity to remain anonymous, it’s up to you.
What if I don’t complete all the 23 Things?
Completing any number of the Things should certainly increase your knowledge of Web 2.0 technologies and their use in education. Do the best you can. However, to receive SB-CEU or grad credit, the entire program must be satisfactorily completed by the end date.
Will there be any face-to-face sessions?
No, this is a self-directed learning program. We provide helpful hints, encouraging words, and post comments on your blogs. The facilitators are available to answer your questions by email.
Do any of the 23 Things require special software?
Flash is required to view some of the applications. Chances are this is already installed on your computer, but if it is not, click here to download it.
Is there any tech support?
No. We will try to answer questions by email, but cannot provide full technical support. We would encourage you to be resourceful. The other participants in this course make up a “personal learning community”. Take advantage of the expertise of your colleagues.
Work with the tech support folks in your district or try to problem-solve with others who are participating in the program.
Who is the project facilitator?
Diane Zoellmer. If you have questions, you may reach her by email at 23things@muskegonisd.org.
