final

I actually really enjoyed the final project--can't believe I'm saying that about a final. Wendy and Matthew were an absolute pleasure to work with, and everyone was focused and productive from beginning to end. I think our projects are doable and would be a very valuable experience for everyone involved. I particularly like the community component--I think that would motivate students to do their best work and foster a critical connection between school and community.

Nick Donofrio

I wanted to like him, I really did. Obviously a very bright, accomplished guy. (the introductory speakers made sure we understood just how much so) Amazing public speaking skills. And, a familiar cultural tilt--he reminded me of a few of my relatives! All the ducks were in order for a great gig--so why did I leave there disappointed?
I guess the main reason is b/c is lecture, while provocative, was very short on specifics, particularly with regard to innovation in education. I mean, what does all that techno mumbo jumbo vacuum tube this, nano-technology that really have to do with teaching English? I know he was trying to impress upon us the notion of thinking BIG, and I appreciate that, but I need some sort of connection between that and the realities of school bureaurcracy. That in the end, is what is going to govern our lives, like it or not. I want someone to teach me how to think BIG and actually have the ability to see it through given real life constraints. At this point in my life as well as my academic career, I've kind of had it up to here with theory. Theory is great, but it's like wishing I could lose 30 lbs without having to exercise. It's not reality. I hate to sound so negative, because enthusiasm is infectious, but only if what you're talking about is something I think has a prayer of happening. Until then, just tell me how to get my school district to give my students access to a wiki w/o 6 months of delays.