Google Sites My Very Own Website!

Today I made my very own website. 

It wasn't terribly difficult, but it wasn't the easiest thing I've done on the internet either.  I think this is one of those assignments that I will definitely be going back to in order to tweek and make improvements as I have more time to play with it.

Anyone can have a website in this day and age.  Simply go to the Google Sites web page, sign in and create one.  I'm really glad that they now have templates.  I have said it before, and I'll repeat it again, I am not the most creative card in the deck.  I like that the templates are colorful, as well as, professional or whimsical.  They have a nice selection to suit many needs.

This is something that my students have actually been asking me about.  Some of them would like to have their own website.  I told them that I would be learning how to create one on an easy user friendly platform, and when I did, I would share that knowledge with them.  I have a feeling April and May are going to be a very busy month in Mrs. Stephens' class, but also very enjoyable and productive months.  I am excited to see the sites they create.  I plan on having them upload several projects from each unit this year, so they have a place to keep their e-portfolios.  They are already using "Dropbox", but this will give them something with more personality to showcase their work alongside their fun and interests.

The NETS addressed in this assignment were:

3. Model Digital-Age Work and Learning

Teachers exhibit knowledge, skills, and work processes representative of an innovative professional in a global and digital society. Teachers:

a.	demonstrate fluency in technology systems and the transfer of current knowledge to new technologies and situations.
b.	collaborate with students, peers, parents, and community members using digital tools and resources to support student success and innovation.
c.	communicate relevant information and ideas effectively to students, parents, and peers using a variety of digital age media and formats.
d.	model and facilitate effective use of current and emerging digital tools to locate, analyze, evaluate, and use information resources to support research and learning.