Liz's Ending Thoughts of the Conference

I didn't want to want another 90 minutes for this to be posted, and I'll be traveling all day tomorrow, so here are my ending thoughts of the ELI 2010 Conference.

While I did not find too many things helpful on Tuesday beyond what I already posted, a couple of bumps on Wednesday including when the session I wanted to see was replaced by another, and Thursday was a short day, I am coming away with a few items of interest:

1. Sophie is definitely something I would like to try. It has many possibilities in all levels of writing classes. I can see projects from instructions & manuals, digital story-telling, pedagogical tools created by graduate students for their writing class etc. I will be emailing the presenters about the possibility of coming to our university for a demo of the software. Holly and Susan mentioned that if a group of 10 could be assembled, they’d be willing to travel to various universities; I’m hoping their grant allows them to travel for free!
2. Google Wave may have potential as far as collaboration for small groups that really require the need for a wiki space, or the training that may be required to go into a wiki (specifically Mediawiki). Even though I didn’t discuss my experience with the Google Wave session, I did have fun laughing and was reminded that it’s amazing what’s on the web as far as edited material. April & I were directed to a couple of resources.
3. The discussion from John Palfrey was inspirational from the standpoint of reinforcing that getting my students to think about their technological literacies and expanding those, as well as being responsible in virtual environments.
4. I found that the poster session were sometimes of more value to me than the actual sessions. I thought they more clearly reflected the majority of audience of the conference (faculty).
5. I definitely want the Flip materials from Duke University’s Flip project. I loved the idea that Flips were used in service learning projects. I even signed up for the pathable website to get the materials.
6. I REALLY want to explore prezi.com as a presentational software! The slides are aesthetically pleasing and interactive. The presentations aren’t linear in a traditional sense and can possible keep people’s attentions much better (or at least mine).
7. Pack extra batteries for the Flip. I wasn’t able to get everyone’s best moments, conference and other.

Ending Personal Austin Comments:

Personally, I found Austin to be a neat town. It was entertaining, safe to walk, abundant in great places to eat, and full of nice people. Sixth Street reminds me of a safe Bourbon Street. I had the best Red Velvet Cake ever.

Thanks April, Carolyn, Michelle, Kristi, Tom, Patti, and Glenna for making this a really fun trip. I’m glad I got to know everyone a little better.

Corrections to earlier blog posting: Erin James’ husband’s family is living in Harvey. It is April’s husband’s mother who lives in Chassel.