ECIS conference – before the event
Well in a couple of days I’m off to Hamburg to listen to many words of wisdom at the European Council of Internaional Schools (ECIS) conference. Welll I hope there will be words of wisdom spoken there. Having been to many conferences one sometimes does, but not always learn things that are actually useful (as opposed to “good idea but…” useful) at these types of events.
What I’m looking for are things that are practically possible at my particular school, both in the administrative and the teqching side of the school. Day to day one can get so involved with what is going on that great, simple, ideas can pass one by. Hopefully by spending time at such an event as this and focussing in on lots of areas that others have already experienced one can improve the learning experience at one’s own school.
Given I’ve configured a Moodle site as a test (both of my ability, but also to try an be inventive/creative with what is being taught), I and the colleague who is going with me can discuss both the actual content and layout of the site.
And if an internet connection is available then perhaps I’ll even practice my twitter skills!!
Twitter for school
Read a great article in the November 2009 issue of International Schools Journal last week by Jeff Utrecht. I’ve always avoided using Twitter in the past but it got me thinking. Currently we send out SMSs to parents about events as an additional reminder to the letters they may (or may not) receive. Perhaps we could also use Twitter to both send out reminders of future events, but also of what is happening now. Given there is a privacy option that means followers can be approved it may work. Using modern ways.
So I’m also now @nahowie, and following the tweets many others but (trying to be careful whom I follow!)