About

23 things for elm2008 has been set-up as part of the TAFE NSW: Doing business in the 21st Century initiative. The aim is to encourage all of us to experiment and learn about the new and emerging technologies that are reshaping the context of training and flexible learning. It is based on the Learning 2.0 program designed by Helene Blowers, the Technology Director at the Public Library of Charlotte & Mecklenburg County.

23 things for elm2008 contains direct links and offers suggestions for ways to incorporate web tools into your classroom and teacher collaborations. I'll be offering ideas to "jump start" your thinking and hope you will share your ideas as you learn how to use web 2.0 tools. The design of this online program was completely built on Web 2.0 technologies that are freely available on the Internet. These sites include: Blogger, Flickr, Odeo, TeacherTube, Wikispaces & Bloglines.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How does this online learning program work? This is a self-discovery program which encourages participants to take control of their own learning and to utilise their lifelong learning skills through exploration and play. Participants are encouraged to work together and share with each other their discoveries, techniques, and "how tos" both in person and through their blogs. This course is web-based and not tied to any particular computer. In fact, you may want to work at home or at a public library if find the TAFE firewall blocks too many blog or multimedia sites.

2. Is this program open to everyone or just some? This program is open to all who want to learn and grow. Participate individually or as a group.

3. How long do I have to complete the program? This is a 9-week program. The idea is that you work on a few new “things” or activities each week. However, you may work ahead (if I ever get around to writing up activities ahead of time :-) or take a week off here and there. It is up to you how fast you decide to work!

4. How do I track my progress for the 23 Things? You will be asked to make a blog of your own to track your progress. You'll use your blog to write your reactions to the lessons and add any ideas you may have on how to use web 2.0 tools for yourself and your training.

5. Will there be any training classes offered to show participants how to do this? This is a self-directed learning program. I'll be providing helpful hints, encouraging words, and posting comments from time to time. You may also be a part of an e-learning mentor group or ANT2 team, which will provide opportunities for further training. Finally, you're encouraged to be resourceful and to find a co-worker or another staff member to work with. Be sure to share your knowledge and expertise!

6. Is there any tech support? The normal TAFE support services are all available for any hardware problems you encounter. If you run into other difficulties, and have done some serious problem solving, and still have a question; you can leave a comment here on the relevant blog entry. I can assist you with the course, but not your computer or Internet connection. Also, check out the “Weekly Tips” page for information.

7. What's elm2008? elm2008 is a tag I made up to associate with the e-learning mentors program for 2008 (e-learning mentors = elm) - it just seemed easier to type and we'll be using it throughout the program to identify the web treasures we unearth as we progress.

8. Why Do This? Web 2.0 is a phrase that was coined in 2004. It refers to the fact that the Internet is now an interactive medium rather than a ‘place’ to go to get information. Since it is the young who are flocking to these Web 2.0 sites, it is important that those of us who work in TAFE should be up-to-date with the latest trends in education and technology and learn how they can be utilised in or with our classrooms and industry training.


But you aren't just 'keeping up' here - you may also find that the tools we explore expand your life - putting you in contact with people and concepts you would not otherwise discover; and techniques and software that will make your training easier and more entertaining that it's ever been before.