Mike's First Ever Sizzling Blog For ED5210

1. All bit about you.
Well, I was born on a snowy night in a tiny yurt on a vast tundra plain in northern Canada. Actually, I was born in a suburb of Chicago in 1980. I am country boy, but for some reason the Lord planted me in the 'burbs. Following my season in the 'burbs, I attended Taylor University in Indiana for 3 1/2 years. I then moved to Wisconsin, where I worked at a youth ranch for almost 5 years.
I really enjoyed getting a taste of life outside of the suburbs. The bounty of fields and trees give constant reminder of a God who loves growing things. I am thankful for my current health, and enjoy keeping in shape (running, working out, sports, etc.). Other interests include photography, reading, writing, and hanging out with people. I sometimes wish I could relive my educational career, though I appreciate the current season of life. I have really liked being in class again. I am looking forward to learning more about educational technology.

2. Why you want to be a teacher.
At my place of employment in Wisconsin, I was exposed to many teachers who were influential in life decisions of their students. The holistic approach of education is appealing to me, as I have the privilege to help shape students' worldviews.

3. Your technology proficiency or comfort level. Describe ways you regularly use computers, computer peripherals (such as digital cameras, scanners, CD burners) and the internet both for your personal and professional use.
I am fairly comfortable with most popular technology. I haven't had access to a scanner for sometime since I haven't been able to afford one. I own a Mac, so it does most of the computing and "thinking" for me. I recognize that I will need to be familiar with the many maladies and shortcomings of the PC for future educational experiences.

4. Expectations for this class. (anticipation of, concerns, etc.)
I hope to learn about tools that are practical for introducing concepts and ideas to students in future classroom experiences.