Isn't it grand when you finally, finally tap into a student's specific talent? Technology is the talent of so many. That is why I attempt to use technology whenever possible. I appreciated Mrs. Penny's frantic attempt to immediately begin learning what she did not know. That's what we all need to do...step out of our comfort zones and into the techie-zone so that more of our students will become engaged in learning. I bet Phillip was on a tremendous natural high after his in-class presentation! I can hear the "atta-boys" all the way in Arkansas! I personally think God especially blesses those who are physically, mentally, emotionally challenged. For so many of them are extremely gifted in some other area of their lives.

I love how Penny finishes this section:
"I feel incompetent and slow. I can't believe I'll ever create something worthwhile. I keep trying. Sometimes I give up. I tell myself to try for just fifteen minutes and see what happens."
In reading this, I saw the mindset of my students. I also question how many times I overlooked the few minutes of effort the student had put into an assignment and focused more on the minutes he seemed to be 'slacking'.
It is my goal this year to incorporate more technology, but unfortunately the school I am in is lacking (unfortunately these issues are not being addressed)...my plan is to continually tie up the computer labs in hopes that there has to be discussion about increasing availability, applications, and opportunities. (Insert evil laugh...)

I echo your evil laugh... having used that strategy myself! I ended up getting our writing lab through continual whining and begging to administration, local grant agencies, etc.