The document discusses the experiences and lessons learned by a student entering into a blended learning environment. It describes how the student learned to use various online tools like Edmodo, Padlet, and Screencast-O-Matic. The student shares advice for both blended learners and instructors, including taking small steps and maintaining connections online. Student and teacher reactions were positive towards using Edmodo in the classroom. The experience changed the student by making them more confident using web tools and aware of how online and in-person learning can benefit students.

2. ENTERING INTO BLENDED LEARNING
When I entered into our blended
learning class, I was very
inexperienced when it came to Web
2.O tools, web resources, the
blended learning environment, and
even just taking an online class!
But I learned so much and now….

3. I USE EDMODO IN MY CLASSROOM…
This is an
icebreaker activity
– we learned that
it’s important to
make connections
and build trust
between
classmates and
teachers and this
is one strategy.
https:/www.edmodo.co
m

4. I CAN USE WEB TOOLS TO HELP WITH
FORMATIVE ASSESSMENTS…
The Edmodo
assessment was for
writing strategies. I
also learned how to
use Padlet to post a
question before a
unit of study to
assess what my
students already
know. http://padlet.com

5. I KNOW HOW TO MAKE A INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO
USING SCREENCAST-O-MATIC…
This is one of the things I’m most excited about…I can
now make videos for my students and parents to
offer them instruction or information on any number
of topics. I made one for this class to show students
and parents how to use our online math game site.
I have so many other ways I’m going to use this
tool and I can’t wait to use it. This was a real
challenge for me and I’m so glad I followed through!
It contains audio, video, and closed-captions.
www.screencast-o-matic .com

6. AND CREATE ONLINE DIAGRAMS
I used Gliffy Diagrams in Google Chrome to make this Venn Diagram.
My students use online diagrams more often now to organize and share
information.

7. ADVICE FOR THE BLENDED LEARNER
• Listen to your blending learning classmates and
instructors. They have so much to offer.
• If a classmate or instructor suggests a resource or
tool, check it out! Try it, you just might like it. I
found so many new ideas that way.
• Ask for help if you need it.
• Try not to get too far behind and keep up with your
assignments.

8. ADVICE FOR THE BLENDED INSTRUCTOR
• Take baby-steps. (This is the most important advice I received!) Take
your learning one small step at a time. Small successes lead to the
motivation to learn more and more.
• Make sure you continue to give comments and feedback online to
maintain a strong connection with your students.
• Be prepared for technology to fail or “throw you a curveball.” Be
flexible and willing to adapt.
• Have fun!
• Listen to your students! Their ideas and feedback are so valuable.
• Set clear expectations for your students.

9. REACTIONS…
My students’ reactions to Edmodo were very positive. They
commented that it’s “easy to use” and “fun.” They often ask if we
can, “do our work on Edmodo again.” Another student
commented that it’s good for kids who are, “afraid to share out
loud in a group.” I do think that is one of it’s greatest benefits – it
feels like more voices are being heard.
My principal and colleagues were happy to see Edmodo being
used in the classroom. We all see the importance of combining
online learning into our face-to-face environments. One of my
colleagues loves Edmodo and all it’s benefits and couldn’t wait to
“show me the ropes.” I was lucky to have so much support.

10. HOW I’VE CHANGED…
This class has changed me in many ways:
• I’m more confident using and exploring Web tools and resources
• I’m more aware of how the combination of online and face-to-face
environments help me meet the needs of all my learners and more
easily integrate their instruction
• I’ve always felt like my students were at a disadvantage because I
was not able to provide them with the technology tools and
resources needed to compete in a 21st century world. Now I feel like
I’ve been given the knowledge needed to begin to design a
curriculum that will prepare my students to be successful in the
future.