Dimdim Now Open to Everyone!

If you are looking for a free open source web conferencing solution look no further then Dimdim. Dimdim which was in private beta is now open to all parties that are interested in setting up an account. Dimdim is a free cross platform web conferencing service where you can share your desktop, show slides, collaborate, chat, talk and broadcast via webcam with absolutely no download required for attendees. I have used it with some of my clients quite successfully. Like all webinar platforms you will need to learn how to navigate your way around- but once you do you will find it a very easy platform to do your webinars in. Give it a try- it is a great way to deliver professional development programs and the price is right:-)

Professional Development for the 21st Century

Just yesterday I connected with my friend and colleague Karen Janowski, an Assistive Technology Consultant in the Boston Area over Skype and we spent the next hour or so catching up and sharing ideas and showing each other new applications. Using Skype we were able to speak with one another and then we connected using Yuuguu a screen sharing application that allowed us to see each others computer screen. Yuuguu was just updated so that the individual on the other end can now access your screen via the internet. Yuuguu is great for ad hoc meetings when you want to share an application with another individual or for that matter a group. You simply give the participants a URL and a PIN number and within seconds they can see your computer screen (do remember to do some tiding up:-) ). Participants can also request control of the presenters screen as well which is fantastic for training purposes.

More importantly as I was reflecting on our interchange it occurred to me that more educators need to seek out these rich Web 2.0 tools so that they can dialog and direct their own professional development. I know for myself, that having access to professionals like Karen that I can connect with on a regular basis really improves and hones my skills and the exchange of ideas is amazing. So when you are considering your own professional development see how you can craft it using the tools I mentioned, Skype & Yuuguu. Educators and other professionals need to look for new models of professional development for the 21st Century and the web is the way to go. Let me know how you are using Web 2.0 tools to expand your professional development.

Profesional Development

My friend and colleague Karen Janowski got me thinking about the summer and opportunities for our own professional development. The summer is a great time for educators to be involved in professional development and to learn about new resources and ways to deliver instruction to their students. With the internet becoming ubiquitous and new Web 2.0 applications, now is the time to explore on your own these rich resources. If you haven't already taken a look at Google Docs, wikispaces, Skype or del.icio.us then spend some time getting a feel for the applications and how they can be used in the classroom. You may also want to take a look at YouTube and TeacherTube for ways to integrate video into the classroom using nothing more than an inexpensive webcam. I know that many teachers are looking for ways to get their students to write and what better way than to use a blog. Teachers can set up free accounts on Blogger and have a working blog up and running in minutes. Blogger gives teachers the controls they need to be able to limit who can post and how posts are moderated. However, before starting a classroom blog it is a good idea to consult with your building administrator. Also take a look at Vyew a new collaborative tool that makes sharing your desktop with students a snap. I would be interested in learning how you might use these tools when your return to your classroom in September. Have a great Summer of learning!