Identified? AR#3

After completing the google search of the online identity calculator it was a bit shocking to see how many times my name was there. Well, actually only four of those hits were really me. I was initially afraid because I saw a search result number of 758,000. Did I like what I saw? When reveiewing the information that was up and running about me, most were consequences of social media websites, such as, Facebook, Twitter, and MySpace. There weren't any pictures or videos out there of me, but I really was worried as I hit that search button.

I would consider myself as "identified" and as Thomas Friedman says, "hyper-connected" especially to the social media outlets. Does this bring positive or negative attention? Well, that depends on whose accessing the information and how they portray what they see or read. Am I relating to others and making powerful connections? This question was also asked by Friedman and I think this is a fair question. The information that you put out about yourself should allow for everyone to make a positive connection with your identity. Is what I'm saying useful? When talking about creating a teacher web, I think it is important for educators to make a powerful connection to many different audiences. Educators are held to a higher standard and I think they have to prove that.

Of course, my teacher web page is going to create an environment that is positive and friendly with all those that I deal with in education. It's the social media sites, such as, Facebook that can sometimes tarnish our images. Unknowingly, friends and family could post a picture of you that you would never want your students to have access to. Not saying, a law breaking picture, but maybe a pic of you in a swimsuit at the beach. I give this example because I have seen educators (including administrators) in these types of positions.

No, we cannot control everything that is out there, but we can limit access to those that we do not feel should see, like our sudents. If we make a conscious effort to filter out and look at and re-examine questionable material, then I think we are doing what is appropriate, but this still allows us to be identified in a positive way.

About Me

My name is Kari Boyle. I am a first grade regular education teacher at Wilson Elementary. I began my teaching career in 2006. I have only taught 1st grade, but would be willing to teach any grade that covers my current certification (K-6). My happiness comes from helping kids grow to become productive and successful contributors to our society. One way that I can say I do this is through my diferent uses of technology in my classroom. Currently, I have a Smart Board in my room and through Professional Development and training I have passed on many new and innovative ways for my students to learn. If it's using touch gestures on the Smart Board, live interaction with e-reader set-up, or Power Points we create, I can say my students are well exposed to current technology.

I am a graduate of the University of Central Florida with a major in Elementary Education. I am currently attending classes at the University of Central Florida with the hopes to receive my masters in Elementary Education. I love being the student in the classroom so I also make it a priority to attend as many workshops and classes that my school district offers, especially those that teach me more about Technology.

I have been married to my wonderful husband, Charlie, for nine years. Three years ago we were blessed with a beautiful and fun-loving daughter, River. She is the center of our Universe and much of our time is occupied by her. If not occupied by her we have two dachshunds, Goliath & Roscoe, as well as two cats, Ian and Whitey. Forgot to mention that we also have two mice. In my free time I love to watch football and happen to be a huge Pittsburgh Steelers fan. I bleed black and gold and am always excited with the arrival of a new season.

This is me in a nut shell, please be sure to visit my blog!

My plan is to gain as much information that I can about educational technologies that are out there. I would like to share my experiences and hope to find that you have valuable information to share with me.