Meet a nErDcamper

Here's What some nErDcampers are saying about nErDcamp NNE.

Paula Bourque- Literacy Coach
Describe your experience at an “unconference” such as nErDcampNNE.

I had a fantastic experience last year at nErDcamp NNE.  I learned about some amazing technology and incredible resources, I gained insight and ideas about a wide range of literacy topics, and I made some lasting friendships with teachers, authors and bloggers that have enriched my life and career ever since.  The Author Night should NOT be missed!

What did you like best about this type of professional development?

The authentic learning that comes from wonder and sharing.  The idea that I can satisfy my curiosity about a topic or approach with colleagues who have a similar interest and leave a day of professional development with more energy than I started it with.

What do you hope will be discussed at the next nErDcampNNE?

Always love to hear about new technology or new ways to use "old" technology.  Can't get enough book talking-love to leave with an ever growing TBR list.  Anything that helps us to create self-regulated learners who are engaged and excited about their learning.

Stacey Sawyer-Math and Literacy Title I Teacher

Describe your experience at an “unconference” such as nErDcampNNE.

Several professionals from our district attended Nerd Camp together. We planned our day so as to attend as many of the diverse workshops as possible. 

Over a fantastic lunch (prepared by the Nerd Camp host(esses) we had some great discussions as we shared our learning- Discussions which we carried back to school.

Overall a very full day that lasted throughout the year.

What did you like best about this type of professional development?

I really enjoyed the "round table" format. Many of the sessions were staged to include active participation from every guest. This approach led to some rich conversations and sharing of new ideas.

What do you hope will be discussed at the next nErDcampNNE?

Struggling Learners

RTI support systems that really work.

Anna Sedenka-4th Grade Teacher

Describe your experience at an “unconference” such as nErDcampNNE.

This was the first "unconference" that I had ever attended and it was great, a very refreshing change from other conferences I have attended in the past!  Because of the organic nature of Nerdcamp, there ends up being something for everyone. It was nice to be sitting in a session and be part of the conversation, not just sitting and listening.

What did you like best about this type of professional development?

I like the organic nature of it.  I enjoy that the schedule is made by the people attending the conference.  I also like being a part of each session, being a part of the conversation.

What do you hope will be discussed at the next nErDcampNNE?

Book Groups

Book Talk: Great New and Upcoming Chapter Books for K-2/3-5/Middle/High School

Good Mentor Texts to teach Common Core Standards

Creating Common Core Aligned Formative and Summative Assessments

Julie Williams
Library Media Specialist at Willard School for grades 1 - 5.

Describe your experience at an “unconference” such as nErDcampNNE.

A whole group from my school went and it was awesome to see everyone excited about learning and trying new things.  It helped us as colleagues become better collaborators.

What did you like best about this type of professional development?

We often talk about just in time learning for our students and that's what this was for us.  It also embraces the idea of voice and choice for adults as well. 

What do you hope will be discussed at the next nErDcampNNE?

It doesn't really matter.  I know with so many professionals there that the topics will be things I can't even anticipate now.

Lesley Burnap-3rd Grade Teacher
Describe your experience at an “unconference” such as nErDcampNNE.

I loved meeting and hanging with the friendly folks at nErDcampNNE! I felt right at home-even though it was my first edcamp ever! I was impressed by the authors who donated their time in many of the sessions. (You-nErDcampNNE- spoiled me for the others camps that followed! Your program's organization set the bar very high!)

What did you like best about this type of professional development?

I enjoy being able to vote with my feet if a session doesn't turn out to be what I thought, but I rarely invoke this "right". The professionalism is outstanding and people are passionate and generous.

What do you hope will be discussed at the next nErDcampNNE?

Love hearing about up and coming books (and old favorites), how we can support one another, and sharing how others encourage and maintain their student readers! Utilizing technology to organize and support my class of readers.

Julie Falatko-Children's Book Author
Describe your experience at an “unconference” such as nErDcampNNE.

I went in knowing no one, but the buzzing energy quickly calmed my "who will I meet" nerves. I had an absolute blast. I went hoping to get ideas about what teachers and librarians are looking for in a school visit from an author, and I learned so much. I honestly use the information I learned at nErDcampNNE all the time.

What did you like best about this type of professional development?

Children's book authors are deeply invested in getting books in the hands of kids. And so are the people at nErDcamp. I felt so energized at the end of the day -- it was amazing to see the people who work with kids every day, and how they do it.  I also loved the way it was so casual and how the sessions grew organically from what people were looking for. I liked that you could decide what sessions to go to right then (rather than sign up way in advance and then wonder if you could switch).

What do you hope will be discussed at the next nErDcampNNE?

I sincerely regret missing the book talk session last year! So I really hope there's another one in 2015.