April 2008 News

News at Professional Learning Board

Spring is upon us and summer is right around the corner – a perfect time to start thinking about expanding your professional development portfolio!

We’re listening. More classes is your #1 request and they’ll be coming soon to PLB.

In our efforts to continually improve our services to meet your professional development needs, we are proud to inform you that we have recruited new instructors to share their knowledge with you. Over the next few months we will spotlighting and introducing folks in informal interviews and giving you previews of the courses in which you can learn and teach together.

Look for new courses coming soon in our PLB renowned self-study format as well as instructor led versions.

New Facilitator

Professional Learning Board is proud to welcome a new teacher-facilitator – Kate Olson. Kate is facilitating the NEW Web Technology for Teachers (Facilitated) course and designed the NEW Introduction to Technology (Self-Directed) course. Kate is an educator who does an amazing job integrating technology into all classrooms. We did a brief interview with Kate so you can get to know her better:

PLB: What draws you to online learning and teaching?
Kate: I really love the fact that online learning breaks down all geographical and time barriers to learning. Teachers have such busy lives and it’s wonderful to be able to make professional development fit in an already full schedule.

PLB: What’s your favorite thing about all of the new web tools and technology available today?
Kate: The numerous tools for collaboration are at the top of my list – they allow students and teachers alike to work together so much more efficiently.

PLB: When you aren’t glued to your laptop, what do you enjoy doing?
Kate: I love spending time with my 2 children and my husband, reading, and enjoying outdoor life on our farm. The best thing about a laptop is that I can take it outside with me!

Teacher Technology Resources

Diigo
Diigo is HOT! In fact, these days this social bookmarking tool is creating a lot of buzz in the online education technology world. For the latest and greatest in Web 2.0, join our Ellen Paxton’s rapidly growing CoolTools and EdTech group at Diigo.com.

ClassTools.net
Create your own games for education – a great tool for all teachers!

New resources are added weekly to the FREE Teacher Toolbar!
Download it here: http://professionallearningboard.ourtoolbar.com
Just added over 50 safety resources!

Thank you for your continued support of Professional Learning Board – we look forward to hearing from you!