scroll down to the Comment Box and type in which habit among the 7 & 1/2 is easiest for you and which is hardest. Then, share the benefits of being able to learn and interact with colleagues both in Baltimore County and throughout the world without leaving home.

The easiest of the 71/2 Habits of Highly Successful Lifelong Learners is probably play, but it could also be the hardest in setting time to do those activities that are meaningful but also time consuming and require internet connectivity.
The Hardest of the 71/2 Habits of Highly Successful Lifelong Learners is to actually have the confidence in myself as a competent and effective learner. I think that at times it takes me a little longer that I would like for the light bulb to go off. I am I think a visual learner but putting it all together in a quick manner is not always as easy as I would like.
The benefits of being able to learn and interact with colleagues both in Baltimore County and throughout the world without leaving home is mindboggling for me. I embrace the opportunities that are ahead of me to gain enough understanding to entice others to try and empower others to utilize these phenomenal resources with their students. I am just so humbled by the opportunity for professional growth at my own pace. I only hope that I will be able to keep a consistent pace. Learning from others in such a global forum is really an awesome opportunity that I am embracing.

For me, one of the easiest habits is teaching and mentoring others -- I'm a GT Catalyst, and I'm really excited about sharing technology integration ideas in the classroom! I'm sure that for a lot of us the hardest habit is viewing problems as a challenge. That pretty much sums up what I'm trying to help other teachers do, and it is a work-in-progress.
I have been using the Internet as a tool for professional development (both for myself and other teachers and students) for many years. I recently attended a conference in D.C. and attended a Web 2.0 seminar and realized that I've gotten a little behind! I really appreciate this forum for helping me organize this stage in my lifelong learning of technology.

I thought this was a great presentation. I am a life-long learner - although, I don't often take the time to think of myself as such. I agree with Robin, that one of the most fulfilling habits is mentoring others - especially our students. I can't emphasize enough how important it is for them to see us continuing in our learning goals. If we think we "have arrived" and are done with our learning, we not only do ourselves a disservice, but we do our students a disservice as well. Learning does not begin and end within the four walls of our classrooms.
As far as obstacles - time (surprise, surprise, right?) is the biggest. There just isn't enough time in the day to do and learn all that needs to be done. I have the resources, I have the tools, I have goals, etc. But - TIME - oh, for more of that precious commodity! I guess, in reality, I do have a lifetime!

Thing #1
I think the hardest habit is to take responsibility for your own learning. It is hard for me to take responsibility for my learning because it means I have to make time to be a life longer learner and I have to make the commitment. It is not like anyone else will hold me accountable for my learning. Especially in an environment that does not directly affect a GPA or my job. The easiest habit for me is to use technology to my advantage. I believe that technology can make many things easier or more interesting so I try to use it whenever I can. However, this can be a disadvantage because using the wrong technology can be a hindering.
I love the idea of being to take classes and collaborate with colleagues over the internet, through email, or other Web 2.0 communications. Ideas, lessons, and other items can be shared. I cannot even imagine how teachers shared items before these technologies were available. I think this makes classroom learning infinite.
~Angie

week 1 Becoming a Lifelong Learner
I might use a wiki in the library media center to do a number of things from organazing learning tasks that include learning about Destiny and also how to effectively search for information using our Fee Based Data bases. I think that this would be really a good tool to use since students will be able to leave meaningful comments and reflections that can be used to fine tune activities to actively engage students and provide meaningful learning tasks that promote creative and critical thinking and problem solving. A wiki could also be used to guide students to other useful tools for projects that require a presentation to the class. With the use of web 2.0 tools there are numerous opportunities for students to have a choice in how they would like to present their information.

week 1 Becoming a Lifelong Learner
I might use a wiki in the library media center to do a number of things from organizing learning tasks that include learning about Destiny and also how to effectively search for information using our Fee Based Data bases. I think that this would be really a good tool to use since students will be able to leave meaningful comments and reflections that can be used to fine tune activities to actively engage students and provide meaningful learning tasks that promote creative and critical thinking and problem solving. A wiki could also be used to guide students to other useful tools for projects that require a presentation to the class. With the use of web 2.0 tools there are numerous opportunities for students to have a choice in how they would like to present their information.

I think the easiest component for me is using technology to my advantage. I am a self-proclaimed techie. I love the gadgets and gizmos and discovering all the new technology and the ways to incorporate it not only in my own learning but that of my students. Having said that, the greatest challenge for me would be confidence in self. I know that I can do something but I struggle with having the confidence to speak up and convince others that this would be a great use of time, technology or resources.

Since I teach kindergarten, wikis are probably not going to be my first choice when it comes to technology. I could incorporate them for parental use but the effectiveness would definitely depend upon the resources, and learning curve, of my parents. But thinking ahead to a time when I may be a school librarian, I can certainly see the effectiveness of using them with upper grades from everything to cross grade level discussions about books to development of projects to collaboration with the technology teacher to have students participating in the wiki not only in the library setting but the general classroom and the technology class. It's also a powerful tool to allow parents and administrators to see the effectivenedd of technology in education.

The easiest habit for me would be Habit #6: Use Technology to My Advantage. I am constantly going to the Internet to find new information or new tools to use. Technology makes it so much easier for me learn new things. The most difficult habit for me would be Habit #3: View Problems as a Challenge. Whenever a problem arises I don't think about it as a situation I can learn from. I tend to panic and think of problems as something I need to deal with so I don't have to worry anymore.

In my classroom I would like to use a wiki as a way for students to share and collaborate with each other. They can read each other's comments on a certain topic and add their own opinions. This could help them see the opinions of others and create a rich discussion. I would also like to use the wiki as a way to develop vocabulary. The students can work together to create a glossary and continue to add their examples and thoughts throughout the year. The students could also use the wiki to collaborate on writing pieces and leaving editing and revising suggestions.

The easiest habit for me would be to teach or mentor others. It takes me a little longer than most to truly get the "whole picture"--and I've probably made all the mistakes you could possibly make before "getting it." Therefore, I'm able to explain to others how to do a specific skill, all the while knowing and understanding most of the pitfalls. The most difficult habit would be to have confidence. As I've stated, I've got to totally understand a process or skill before I can share--and that generally takes a little longer than I'd like. It's difficult not to feel overwhelmed by what you don't know and to focus on what you're trying to learn.

I would like to be able to create a wiki so that my students could do an online book club. I'd also like to become familiar with Flickr, create and publish a podcast, and for self-interest, create a consumer blog.

Sitting here on a snowy day, it is fantastic to know that I can learn about the Web 2.0 tools in the comfort of my home as well as in concrete classrooms. I can communicate with my colleagues and continue to add to my technological toolbox, using my time to learn rather than physically travel.

Week 1 -- Which habit is easiest? I'd have to say PLAY and then my second choice (not that we were asked that) would be to view problems as challenges. I do like to explore and try to figure things out for myself...maybe it goes hand in hand with the viewing of problems as challenges. How many of us pull something out of the box and start tinkering without reading the instructions?

One of the problems with playing is finding the time! Sometimes it seems like the online arena is a black hole for time. I can get so engrossed in something and follow link after link and before I know it, so much time has slipped away. Maybe I need to set a timer for myself! I guess it's good that the Wii Fit tells you how long you've been playing and suggests that you take a break! But, I do enjoy it and then I'm proud of myself when I have figured something out or created something!

My toughest habit would be mentoring and teaching. How odd, right? I suppose I find this difficult because I need to remember that while my mind is racing with what I have learned or know, I need to be sure I am slowing it down enough for my audience. Yes, I know I'm in the teaching profession...but I think I feel this way not about students but adults. I think as my mind races, I think theirs are too.

Finally, I love the online forum. As you can see, I am a little behind on the timeline...just getting started...but now I'll be on a roll. Working online is great. My favorite spot -- in bed after everyone else has gone to sleep. It's quite, there are few distractions, if any, and I can work at my own pace.

I've actually already created a pbwiki for an online book club this year. I had high hopes for it but I started second guessing myself...is this the best format? Should I creat a blog? Maybe I'll know the answer to this after I finish the 23 Things!

When reviewing the 7.5 Habits of Highly Successful Lifelong Learners, I find habit #1, "Begin With the End in Mind" most easiest for me. When I have determined a goal, whether it is a personal or professional goal, I am then able to break it down into manageable steps in order to achieve this goal. Sometimes I have to remind myself along the way that I am working towards the ending goal, if this is a long process, though :)

The habit I find most challenging is Habit 3, "View problems as challenges". As someone who tends to be a perfectionist (from myself, not expecting of others) I tend to get frustrated when I come to "bumps in the road" and don't always see the clear steps needed to overcome this.

I LOVE having the opportunity to collaborate with both BCPS colleagues and others around the world through the use of the Internet. This venue opens many chances to have discussions with others, at the leisure of the participants.

The habit I find to be the easiest is taking responsibility for my own learning. Whenever I come across a topic that sparks an interest and that I want to know more about I research it. This could be as quick as googling the topic to get a general sense of it and that may satisfy my curiosity. Or it may be as time consuming as spending hours finding books, articles, and web sites that provide me with more information.

I have the hardest time beginning with the end in mind. There are times, like taking a class, when this is fairly easy (and sometimes even defined for you i.e. receiving an endorsement on your certificate). Often, though, I am learning for my own interest and pleasure and then there is not really an "end" to keep in mind. I'm simply satisfying a curiosity. I may never use the knowledge that I have gained.

I am not a classroom teacher, but I am considering how a wiki could be used to allow teachers to share among themselves (very much like we are doing in this one). Perhaps ideas for presenting challenging social studies content (like economic concepts) could be shared.

Sorry! I posted this in the wrong place at first. I wanted to share my thoughts on the easiest and hardest of the 7 1/2 habits. By far, the easiest habit for me is playing! I love to play. I have a 3 1/2 year old daughter, and she just gave me more excuses to be silly and have fun. Often, I think I am having more fun than she is. The hardest for me is taking responsibility for my own learning. By this, I mean that I allow everyone else's needs come before my own needs or desires. I often will leave the book unread or the project unfinished to help someone else. I think, as educators, we have giving, nuturing personalities and it is often very difficult to say no!

I am an elementary school principal, and I can see that wikis would be a powerful tool to have teachers talk to each other in a vertical teaming sort of fashion. It would also be helpful to connect related arts teachers to the classroom teachers. It is a powerful way to engage teachers in professional development.

My favorite and the one I believe is most important is 7 1/2 - PLAY! It is through use that we get comfortable with the technology. If you watch our students they are so comfortable because they use it without thinking about it. It's also the most fun! I don't know many educators who are not lifelong learners. But there are different degrees and the intimidation factor with technology comes into play. The more you use it, the more comfortable you are.

The easiest for me is PLAY! I work hard but feel it is just as important to play. Therefore, I am involved in activities that I enjoy during my free time. Sometimes I feel guilty for "playing" because I "should" be doing something else. We all know that play is important to our well being. The hardest for me is Viewing Porblems as Challenges. I become easily frustrated when I cannot figure out a problem. I like to figure things out so that I can move on. I cannot stop and think "how I can learn from them" until the solution has been presented.

I would like to use wikis to establish a learning location for students to share their thoughts and opinions. I really liked the wiki example from Vincent Farm. Unfortunately my students don't interact much outside of their grade level. A wiki could be a meeting place for all grades to collaborate.
The nice part of learning from your computer is that you can do it at any time from any place. The convenience factor makes life easier for those who don't have time during a structured time slot. It also allows for more authentic communication because you can respond when something strikes you as opposed to waiting and possibly forgetting.

I found the easiest thing for my was Play also. I was not surprised at the choices they made for the 7 and 1/2 habits video. I think that we all play with technology or we wouldn't be doing what we do on a daily basis. I found that playing lead me to becoming a technology teacher. WE learn by trial and error. I feel that I could be a professional student as I have been going to school for something or another all my life. I play the tenor drums in a bagpipe band and have to constanly learn new music. It has to be memorized for competitions and parades. This is social but it is also learning new tunes and styles. I have to practice learning the flourishing techniques that go along with it. I enjoy it because it is something different than what I do all day. I also raise goats and sheep and my family still can't get over this after 12 years.. I grew up in Philadelphia in the city so this has become a learning curve. This started because of a parent bringing in a baby goat to my classroom. She told me they make good pets and will help keep the grass down. I didn't have a clue about goats but soon joined a local 4H and got my daughter involved and became a volunteer. Then sheep were added and the Fiber club and then a spinning wheel and loom etc. It is amazing when I think how things have evolved. There is a celtic connection here also. If I wasn't going to HIghland events I wouldn't have hooked up with the people I bought my Shetland Sheep from. My daughter and husband play the bagpipes and I was going with them for so long that I ended up learning to play the tenor drums. My daughter is now in college so I have inherited the animals and their care. My daily routine revolves around them. Anyway, the hardest thing for me to do is to have a clear end view in mind. You start out doing one thing and then decide to branch out. I think that is why I still get excited about teaching after many years. I like to try things differently instead of constant repetition.

I think I would like to use the wiki to share student work samples. I have been busy working with my technology classes with both the desktop publishing and graphic arts categories to see what they could do. Since I am in the computer lab all day I can vary the types of activites with students. I think this would be a good way for them to crtique each other and establish a dialogue that they might not be able to do in a class setting. I am interested in seeing what other teachers are doing. I had no clue what these were until I started reading the assignments. Now I am ready to go. I have found that a lot of this information is being blocked. It does slow things down.

I think the easiest thing for me is to teach others. I find myself teaching people how to do just about anything just about anywhere. For example, I was teaching my sister-in-law how to do deep breathing exercises to calm herself down when the girl who was going to do her hair for her wedding was late. I have a hard time viewing problems as challenges; problems irritate me and I tend to think of them as obstacles. People always tell me that I learn a lot from my "challenges," but I feel that I get only stress.

Like you, Aimee, I struggle with viewing problems as challenges. My initial reaction is irritation and frustration; but I am working on reframing my thoughts.....it is almost becoming a spiritual practice...perhaps through this challenge I will get a chance to test my development. I find creating learning toolboxes the easy part in my lifelong learning development. I have always enjoyed investigating and searching for the components to answer questions or solve problems. I wouldn't rule out play either...there is nothing more enjoyable than making new discoveries while playing around.

Teaching and mentoring others is the easiest thing on the list. Habits 4 and 6 are tied as the hardest or most difficult for me. I feel as if need someone to sit by my side to help and me encourage me as I work my way through these tutorials. Guess I need my own personal mentor! I am really excited to be able to share ideas with others. Our jobs (library media specialist) are done mostly in isolation since very few of us have co-workers. Web 2.0 tools may bring some relief!!!!

JoAnne, the great thing about web 2.0 is you do have a mentor sitting right next to you -- we're just all sitting virtually next to you! We're all in this together. Ask all the questions you want! :)
Robin H-B

I've always thought of myself as a life-long learner. Technology is moving and changing and all of us are scrambling to keep up. I completed a Master's in Instructional Technology several years ago and find that I've fallen behind because I've been so busy with the day to day challenges of teaching. I am in a new position now as a Mentor and I want to be able to support the classroom teachers as they find creative ways to integrate technology. For me, allowing myself to "play" is the hardest habit to embrace- but I'm trying!

I have always thought of myself as a learner, so I guess that might mean that having confidence and an open mind to learning new things is the easiest of the 7.5 habits for me. I also used to be very playful.. but over the last couple of years, dealing with different "challenges" have become less so! This tutorial has caused me to reflect honestly about this habit and recognize that I need to recover this attitude!

Accepting responsibility for my own learning is the easiest habit for me. In life I have chosen to learn different things--with varying degrees of success. The most difficult habit is viewing problems as challenges. I look at a problem as something that needs to be solved. Whether the problem is a learning experience depends on the problem. Whereas accepting responsibility for my own learning is always a learning experience.

Jeeze, it took me a while to figure out how to get here. I agree with Jan. I used to be more playful, but have left some of that behind. It is fun to play around with the things I have been finding and sharing those things with other people.