Thing # 1 Lifelong Learning and Learning 2.0

Today I learned about lifelong learners.  For lifelong learners, it is never too late to acquire new skills and knowledge.  Learning can occur outside of the formal education system and throughout a lifetime.

Lifelong learners...
(1).  set goals
(2.)  accept responsibility for their own learning
(3.)  view problems as challenges
(4.)  are confident in themselves
(5.)  create a learning toolbox (books, classes, mentors, etc.)
(6.)  use technology
(7.)  teach others
and (7 1/2.)  play!

I am a lifelong learner.  I am especially good at habits # 2 and #5.  I accept responsibility for my own learning by taking advantage of classes and materials that are available to me.  If I want to get involved with something new, like gardening for example, I know where to find the information I need and how to build a toolbox to get started.  I know that lots of books are available in the library about gardening.  I can also use online resources like grower websites and chat forums.  If I want to speak to somebody directly, I can call my local Agricultural Extension Service.    All of these resources are available to help me in my endeavor and should be put to use.
Viewing problems as challenges rather than crises (#3) is sometimes a little harder for me.  Often the obstacles that are encountered when learning something new can be overwhelming.  Even the sheer amount of knowledge that you uncover in a subject can be mind-boggling.  These things should be looked at as opportunities to learn, not to panic.

I have had fun learning Web 2.0 tools.  Initially, I was a little skeptical about how technology can be used in an art classroom.  With a little exploration, I have found a lot of great examples of art educators using technology in their lessons.  The internet also offers tons of interactive sites that can be used by art learners.  Smartboards and clickers (just some of the technology I have learned about so far) are also great tools.  I have found a lot of uses for smartboards and would like to learn a little more about how I can incorporate clickers into my classroom.

This blog was extremely quick and easy to set up.  I enjoy the simplicity of the blog and think it will be a great way to record my progress through the 23 things!