Activity 5# Google Docs.

I did not know about this site and its applications. It was very reading, but it took me awhile to get my head around it. I can see its usefulness from a collaborative point of view, but I don't know how it would work in my workplace as not many people would know how to use it. It could be interesting to experiment with it and see how it goes! I will need to go back to this site to get a better understanding of all its possibilities and try out a few things.

Activity 7# Google Books

As I am an avid book reader, I was very intrigued with this site! I especially loved perusing the magasines section and got quite lost in reading some of these. Although I did get a little frustrated in that you could only gain access to parts of some reading materials. I loved that you had such a large supply of different reading matter and access to so much material! However, I still like to actually browse through a bookstore, hold the book in my hands and flick through the pages - it literally gives me a "feel" for the book. It would take away some of the pleasure to read it on my phone or Ipad. However, that's me and i guess I'm old fashioned and behind the times in that regard. I will certainly revisit this site when I want to explore the latest listings of my favourite authors.

Activity 6# Google Maps

I've justed explored Google Maps in more depth. I have used it before but didn't realise all the functions that you could use, especially the fact that you can edit and add. That was most interesting. I wonder how old the photos are? Our lawn looks very dry, so it must have been long before we received the deluge of rain we have since had as now it is very green. I have also used Google Maps for directions as we do not have a Satnav. However, I have also discovered that sometimes their directions leave a lot to be desired as we have been directed to an area only to discover a paddock between us and our destination!! or a dead end street - the destination in clear view but no way to get there! It has been very interesting at times!! However, overall, it is a very useful tool and one I would like to explore even further when i have the time.

Activity 4 Web2.0

Being quite ignorant of what Web2.0 was all about, I found this activity quite interesting and it has taken me some time to digest all the information. I like the idea of the user interacting with the learning environment rather than just being a "sponge" and soaking up information. It opens up so many avenues of exploration and involvement not only with the information but also those involved with the collection of data and processing of the information. It is as if the world is actually at your fingertips and you are able to access information not only from the past but also the present!!

Here I am!!

Hello Everyone,
I'd like to introduce myself. My name is Trish McKenzie and I'm a teacher at St. Philip's in Blackburn North. I'm really looking forward to learning so much about using the internet and trying to keep one step ahead of my students!!! Although I think that might be quite a challenge - even though they are only Yr. 3 and 4 students.
Regards
Trish