Anyone wish to share thoughts or opinions regarding Web 2.0 and Open Source software programs?

My school district’s Technology Coordinator and Technology Committee advocate the downloading and utilizing of Open Source programs available on the Internet as they are virtually free of financial costs. They believe purchasing inexpensive laptops and uploading of free software programs from Open Source providers saves money and is just as effective as purchased programs in classrooms and computer labs. I have had a difficult time arguing against that reasoning during this stressful financial period in California. Persuading administrators and teachers to purchase software programs is nearly impossible even if they agree the programs are unique and will help students perform better academically.

I attended the recent California CUE Conference in Palm Springs and observed it was dominated by advocates of Open Source software programs and representatives from Google and Apple. Seems Apple is creating computers and operating systems that work seamlessly with freeware offered by Open Source writers and downloadable programs such as G-Mail, Earth, Sketch, Docs, etc. I was excited and intrigued by the CUE presentations and started learning how to use them as soon as I arrived home. These and other powerful programs work as well as commercial programs costing hundreds of dollars.

How does FableVision fit into the picture as the educational technology paradigm shifts into a new direction?

I want to spotlight two other Peter H. Reynolds books, The Dot and Ish, which are very much in the spirit and philosopy of The North Star.  If you’re reading this blog then you’re probably very familiar with The Dot and Ish, but if not, and you love The North Star and all it represents, then you must go out and find them.  

While The Dot and Ish are very different stories than The North Star, they share The North Star’s messages of being yourself, being brave and following your interests and passions…  without worrying what anyone else thinks or says.  The three books are clearly in the same family in terms of philosophy… and no wonder, since all three were written by Peter H. Reynolds!   

I took The Dot  into a first grade classroom last month to read for a guidance lesson, and as soon as one little boy saw the book cover he said “I have that book!  It’s my FAVORITE!”  He quickly planted himself on floor right in front of me, and while the other kids put their materials away and joined us in the circle area, the little boy gave an impromptu summary of The Dot, and then added that he loves Ish too.  

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been able to put a child at ease about something they’re writing or drawing… anything they’re creating or doing… by reminding them it can be “ish.”  If the child knows the Ish story, then telling them that something can be “ish,” or story-ish, bird-ish, etc, immediately brings a smile to their face, and a calmness to their spirit… and they are most often able to complete their project with greater ease and confidence. 

So, if you’re looking for more resources that reinforce The North Star approach and philosophy, be sure to add The Dot and Ish to your libraries.