1. Introduction Activity

One of the complaints about online learning is that it is too impersonal. Classmates may feel isolated and alone at the start of the learning process because they cannot see their fellow classmates. However, one of the benefits of online learning is that it eliminates the intimidation some people feel in a face–to–face classroom. Via the electronic format, everyone has the same voice and the same opportunity to "speak."

Your Week 1 Activity assignment is to introduce yourself to your classmates via e–mail. This will allow you to begin to build your virtual learning community. Compose a brief introduction to share that includes:

• Your name and preferred nickname
• Where you work
• Your curricular and/or administrative responsibilities, including your grade level and/or subjects you teach if you are a classroom teacher
• Educational background
• One thing you are really good at
• One thing you are excited to learn or what you hope to gain from this learning experience
• Any additional information you wish to share (e.g., children, hobbies, interests)

You will receive an e–mail message from your instructor with Introductions in the subject line. Click or tap the 'Reply All' command in your e–mail window and then copy and paste your introduction into the body of that e–mail message.

2. Reflective Assignment — Course Content, Readings, and More

Part A: Write an informal 100–150 word reflection on your learning exploration this week as you reviewed the Lesson Content, iLearning in Action, and Me, Myself, and iOS sections.

Part B: In 100–150 words, review and reflect on a minimum of two of the resources provided in this week's Suggested Readings.

Note: Please do not summarize what you explored; instead, discuss your personal reactions, new ideas, significant insights, and how the information can be used to support you becoming an iTeacher.

3. Application Assignment — Student Survey

Teachers are often surprised at the technology tools their students use on a daily basis. Increasingly, younger students are using a wide variety of technologies starting at a very young age, as young as 1 or 2. For this week's application assignment, survey your students or those you work with to find out what mobile technology tools (i.e. hardware) they have and use. For example, how many have an iPad (or other tablet), iPhone (or other smartphone), and other digital devices. Find out this week just what tools and digital toys your students are using.

Write a brief summary of what you learned including what surprised you about your students' use of mobile technologies. If you are not currently able to survey classroom students, try surveying a few kids in your neighborhood or community.

Note: Concentrate your survey on hardware type tools, not software, social networking, or Internet usage. If unable to complete this survey, let your instructor know and include why.

4. Submission Instructions

Type your assignment (items 2 and 3 above) single–spaced with an extra line between paragraphs. Create your assignment in a word processor and save often. Complete both the reflective and application assignments in the same file. Include the appropriate heading at the beginning of each section (i.e. Reflective Assignment Part A, Reflective Assignment Part B, Application Assignment). Then, copy and paste your assignment into the body of an e–mail message. Do not send your assignment as an attachment. Enter Week 1 Assignment in the Subject line of your e–mail message. Submit your assignment on or before midnight on the activity's due date. Review the Schedule under Course Home for due dates.

Important Note: If you desire graduate credit, click or tap here for more information. You must complete graduate credit application requirements by the end of this week. After Week 1, an application for graduate credit will not be accepted due to accreditation requirements. In addition, please let your instructor know when submitting this week's assignment.