In many ways we each live in our own isolated world.  It is difficult to stay informed and aware of new ideas and tools that could improve our performance and effectiveness in the classroom.  My week at DENSI (Discovery Education Summer Institute) 2013 gave me a fantastic opportunity to observe and interact with innovative educators from across North America and learn how they are incorporating technology into the classroom.   I came back with a wealth of new information and new ideas from teachers that I now consider colleagues and friends.  It will me takes some time for me to process all the information and ideas I brought back.

In the meantime, with apologies to David Letterman, here are the Top Ten Things I Learned at DENSI:

10. Our next fundraiser will be the Men of the DEN calendar.

9.  Apple products far outnumber PC products among DENSI educators.

8. Textbooks are undergoing a technological revolution, becoming interactive and dynamic; Discovery Education offers such an alternative in Science and Social Studies and will offer Math in the very near future.

7.  Passion and a positive attitude go a long way toward a successful and joyful learning environment.

6. Collaboration with educators improves the classroom experience for students and the Discovery Education Network (DEN) provides access to experienced and enthusiastic teachers.

5. Technology can facilitate collaboration with schools around the world.

4.  Students need to be taught critical thinking skills, including the ability to locate, examine, analyze, verify and evaluate information found on the Internet.

3.  Board Builder will provide an outstanding opportunity for our students to create and collaborate.

2. Today’s technology enables learning to take place anywhere and any time, not just in the classroom.

1. I am part of a brilliant and passionate group of educators committed to making a difference in the lives of students. I am honored and grateful to be part of the DEN.