Happy 5th Anniversary Ontario #GAFESUMMIT

I can't believe that this is my 5th year attending the #GAFESUMMIT in Kitchener!

I remember how I felt during my first year at the summit.  I was so overwhelmed.  I could hardly absorb any of the information that was being shared.  I felt out of the loop...behind on the times & so excited about the ideas spinning around in my head.

Fast forward to year 5 & I am relaxed, having fun...behind on the times & so excited about the ideas spinning around in my head. 

The moral of the story is that technology changes so fast, you are always behind on the times.  You never know everything.  It can be both disconcerting and comforting.  I suppose it is stressful knowing that you are not aware of the latest tricks and techniques, however I don't always feel that way.  I find comfort in the fact that technology is constantly changing.  It is a continuum of growth that never ends.  It is an evolution.

To be honest, if there was nothing to learn, I would be bored.  Conferences like this help me feel refreshed as an educator.  I am excited to refine my practice, better meet student needs and find ways to make learning fun & memorable.  

So here's to being behind...out of the loop & always running to catch up.  It make's you feel alive doesn't it?!  :)

In honour of the 5th Anniversary, here is a walk down memory lane.  My notes from the each of the Summits:

Compiled Tools for Learning List

Ontario #GAFESUMMIT Year 1 - 2013

Ontario #GAFESUMMIT Year 2 - 2014   Day 1   &   Day 2
(Apparently I was tricky this year)

Ontario #GAFESUMMIT Year 3 - 2015

Ontario #GAFESUMMIT Year 4 - 2016

Ontario #GAFESUMMIT Year 5 - 2017 
FOLLOW ALONG or COLLABORATE on these notes with me throughout the conference.
I also try to tweet throughout the conference, sharing links & awesome ideas from presenters.

Sue Vaz & I "caught in the act," loading up on snacks... as we take on the #edtechteam challenge to use our new pouches in a creative way.  Thanks for being my partner in crime for this summit Sue!