Skyrocketing Learning: The Hidden Power of Informal Learning

In 1971, the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reported that 70% of all adults engaged in informal learning. Informal learning comes from the daily experiences and the educative influences and resources in our environment (family & neighbors, work & play, the marketplace, the library, and mass media). Join Kathy and Paige as they discuss how technology has influenced informal learning for all ages and both fun and abundant opportunities to increase your skills and vision for learning across the lifespan!

Tech Tips:

• Ask Patty: Women’s Car Help:
  • http://www.askpatty.com (run by Jody DeVere)
• Help A Reporter:
  • http://www.helpareporter.com (run by Peter Shankman)

Informal Learning:

• The Age Less Learner
  • http://agelesslearner.com/intros/informal.html
• Ocean’s End Wii game
  • Game Trailer on Youtube
  • Game Spot screenshots and reviews
• Cali Bamboo (exampleof informal learning used by company to help support their business!
  • www.calibamboo.com

Research Mentioned:

• A. Tough 1971
  • Tough, A. (1971). The adult’s learning projects learning. Toronto: OISE.
  • Tough, A. (1999). The iceberg of informal learning. NALL Working Paper #42- 2002.
• NCES 2001 Data
  • US Department of Education. (2004). National household education surveys of 2001: Participation in adult education and lifelong learning. Washington DC: NCES.

You can be part of the conversation live at our recordings or subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.Listen to us anytime, 24/7, on your favorite podcast catcher Google reader, iGoogle, Zencast, iTunes, or this website.

• Catch us live every 2 weeks- participate as part of the recording! check out our site for information
• Chat for live shows: http://www.blogtalk.radio.com/transformationed
• Phone in number for live shows (646) 716-9280

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(C) Copyrighted by Transformation Education LLC, Kathleen King and Paige Eissinger, 2007-2008

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Kathy just returned from the NECC 2008 (National Education Computing Conference) in San Antonio, Texas  and she has lots to share. From BrainPOP to iEARN- we cover the world of animation for learning to global student partnerships-

being a youngster in the 21st century is packed with fun-filled learning!

We have an exciting show to discuss these resources and how they can be used not only in schools, but also at home!

Are you a parent, guardian, aunt, uncle, grandparent, babysitter, daycare worker,  friendly neighbor, or teachers???? We have some exciting FUN and dynamic learning resources for you to explore with youngsters of all ages….

TECH TIP Episode 20

YOUSENDIT -

• Free file sharing - send large files without maxing out our email in and sent boxes!

• http://www.yousendit.com
• FREE- send files up to 100 MB
• Optional- paid account provides much larger file transfers!

Among some of Dr. Kathy King’s most interesting finds at the NECC 2008 conference were

1) BrainPOP, one of the most popular multi-media online learning tools currently being used by K-12 teachers across the country.  http://www.brainpop.com/  

AND

2) iEARN.org- with k-12 collaborative global citizenry projects.

http://www.iearn.org/
Join Kathy and Paige as they discuss BrainPOP, iearn.org, and other cool tekkie learning tools including our episode Tech Tip!

You can be part of the  conversation live at our recordings or subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.Listen to us anytime, 24/7, on your favorite podcast catcher Google reader, iGoogle, Zencast, iTunes, or this website. Catch us live every 2 weeks- participate as part of the recording! check out our site for information

• Chat for live shows: http://www.blogtalk.radio.com/transformationed
• Phone in number for live shows (646) 716-9280
• You can also leave us a telephone message at 201-616-0561 (This is the line for Transformation Education LLC!)

Subscribe with iTUNES itpc://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/transformationed

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(C) Copyrighted by Transformation Education LLC, Kathleen King and Paige Eissinger, 2007-2008

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Listen to Dr. Kathleen King make a public reversal on her previous opinion that computer games were for other people…not for her! As you know, Kathy has long been a strong supporter of using technology, including computer generated games and activities, to promote learning at all ages. She just never included herself as one who would actually use those types of activities. It looks like things have changed since she received a Nintendo Wii (pronounced wee) for her 50th birthday.

A few of the topics Kathy and Paige discussed regarding the Wii included:

• Involving multiple people in not only the games themselves, but in the creation of avatars (called Miis) to represent the various players. This part particularly appealed to her two year old niece!
• Using the Wii to share photos and video clips on the SD card from your digital camera by inserting it directly into the Wii controller box
• Creating jigsaw puzzles from photos and using the remote to reassemble the pieces
• Playing remotely with other Wii users connected to the Internet
• Giving people with limited mobility the opportunity for some physical activity that may not have been possible for them in a non-virtual situation

Kathy has seen the Wii promote true intergenerational learning and sharing in her own home by involving friends and family members from ages two to 102 in the various activities available. As someone who is always excited when she discovers the potential of technology to be used in educational situations, she was absolutely bubbling over with the potential provided by the Wii. Her excitement was contagious live and no doubt will be contagious to podcast listeners, so check out Episode 19 now!

=================

Join in the conversation live at our recordings or subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.Listen to us anytime, 24/7, on your favorite podcast catcher Google reader, iGoogle, Zencast, iTunes, or this website. Catch us live every 2 weeks- participate as part of the recording! check out our site for information

• Chat for live shows: http://www.blogtalk.radio.com/transformationed
• Phone in number for live shows (646) 716-9280
• You can also leave us a telephone message at 201-616-0561 (This is the line for Transformation Education LLC!)

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(C) Copyrighted by Transformation Education LLC, Kathleen King and Paige Eissinger, 2007-2008

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Since 2004, Internet-based new media formats have exploded the exposure of the online community to alternative voices, viewpoints and experiences. Join Kathy and Paige as they discuss some of the earliest adopters of podcasting (the GLBT community). Kathy presented her research in this area at a recent international conference. Tune in to hear what she learned about: The benefits for under-represented groups in using podcasting, what risks they faced in presenting their views and how their podcasts have evolved over time! Very kewl and lots of us to learn about podcasting for lives and teaching.

There is always lots of fun and discussion on relevant technology and living topics with this dynamic duo.

List of Resources:

• AERC 2008: Conference information

• Links to Dr King’s Related Presentations/Papers:

• LGBTQ Pre-Conference, AERC Conference, Univ. Missouri, St Louis - 6/4/08:
• King Presentation (PPT/PDF)
  
• King Paper
  

• AERC Presentation- Under-Represented Voices through New Media, Univ. Missouri, St Louis - 6/6/08 (KING & Sanquist)
• King & Sanquist Presentation (ppt/PDF)
• King & Sanquist paper
  

Join in the conversation live at our recordings or subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.Listen to us anytime, 24/7, on your favorite podcast catcher Google reader, iGoogle, Zencast, iTunes, or this website. Catch us live every 2 weeks- participate as part of the recording! check out our site for information

• Chat for live shows: http://www.blogtalk.radio.com/transformationed
• Phone in number for live shows (646) 716-9280
• You can also leave us a telephone message at 201-616-0561 (This is the line for Transformation Education LLC!)

Subscribe with iTUNES itpc://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/transformationed

RSS feed http://feeds.feedburner.com/TransformationEducation

 

 Ep 18: GLBT Voices and Podcasting: Empowerment through New Media [40:28m]: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download

(C) Copyrighted by Transformation Education LLC, Kathleen King and Paige Eissinger, 2007-2008

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Not sure what New Media is or why it can and should be used in higher ed classrooms?

Join Kathy and Paige as they discuss, inform and entertain!  Links to the examples, articles, and models our found here at this website!
Lively stories abound as always for our Transformation Education LIVE family!

Links and Articles Mentioned:

Class blog:  http://uege5102.blogspot.com 

King, K. P. (2008, May). Introducing new media into teacher preparation: Transparently integrating podcasting into college classes

• ISTE SIG Handheld Computing (ISTE SIGHC) 3(4), 4-7.
• http://www.iste.org/Content/NavigationMenu/Membership/SIGs/SIGHC_Handheld_Computing/SIGHCnewsletter0508.pdf

 Dr. King’s faculty web page is http://faculty.fordham.edu/kpking

• Also she has a professional websites at www.kpking.com   and www.transformationed.com 

Our online course environment is powered by Blackboard

• However our specific class is private, it is not publicly available.

• You may see Blackboard at  www.blackboard.com
  

Dr. King’s related books

• Podcasting for education:
  
  • Podcasting for Teachers: Using a New Technology to Revolutionize Teaching and Learning

• Distance learning: 
  • Harnessing Innovative Technology in Higher Education 
    

Announcements:

ISTE NECC Teacher’s Podcast Meet-Up and Focus Group June 30 4-5:30pm

• Free events,
• Give-aways
• Community opportunity
• Meet with your co-hosts: Mark and Kathy in San Antonio

Best Educational Podcast Contest

• Deadline July 5, 2008
• Awards, commendations
• Guest interview for all grand winners
• Check the link for details

Join in the conversation live at our recordings or subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.Listen to us anytime, 24/7, on your favorite podcast catcher Google reader, iGoogle, Zencast, iTunes, or this website. Catch us live every 2 weeks- participate as part of the recording! check out our site for information

• Chat for live shows: http://www.blogtalk.radio.com/transformationed
• Phone in number for live shows (646) 716-9280
• You can also leave us a telephone message at 201-616-0561
  • (This is the line for Transformation Education!)

Subscribe with iTUNES itpc://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/transformationed

RSS feed http://feeds.feedburner.com/TransformationEducation

(C) Copyrighted by Transformation Education LLC, Kathleen King and Paige Eissinger, 2007-2008

www.transformationed.com

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Leave it to Dr. K, that podcasting diva, to hog-tie Mark Gura, her co-host on Teachers

Podcast, and have him here LIVE with us to discuss their newest podcasting venture: Talking Financial Literacy. Talking Financial Literacy is a global discussion dealing with educational needs emerging from the ever changing world of personal finance.

Join us for a thought provoking (and always entertaining) segment.

Resources:

• Talking Financial Literacy Podcast www.talkingfinlit.org

Tech Tip:

• Gmail listen in to hear how to find all your unread email in one click!
• http://www.gmail.com

Join in the conversation live at our recordings or subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.Listen to us anytime, 24/7, on your favorite podcast catcher Google reader, iGoogle, Zencast, iTunes, or this website. Catch us live every 2 weeks- participate as part of the recording! check out our site for information

• Chat for live shows: http://www.blogtalk.radio.com/transformationed
• Phone in number for live shows (646) 716-9280
• You can also leave us a telephone message at 201-616-0561
  • (This is the line for Transformation Education!)

Subscribe with iTUNES itpc://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/transformationed

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As a vibrant follow up to the episodes about technology and politics, this week Kathy and Paige interview the founder of Skewz.com, Vipul Vyas. The discussion ranges from the use of the site and online dialogue to help people understand the slant/agenda of media sources, developing critical thinking and supportiung dynamic dialogue across political, religious and different constituency groups.

As we discuss the site’s purpose, dynamics, working, participation, and creation, we enjoy also exploring the possibilities and accomplishments in educational settings now and for the future:

From Poli Sci to US Government, free speech, to multiculturalism, Democracy to Social Studies, Linguistics to Cross Cultural Communication, would a fabulous laboratory, microcosm, dataset and most of all online community to watch and within which to participate

How wonderful is that for one website to offer teaching and learning for students of all ages (under 18 with supervision)?

Skewz is a place to read conservative and liberal stories selected by users. See them rated, engage in dialogue and look at the world from different perspectives…

This online community is a terrific example of how Transformation Education LIVE! believes online resources and Web 2.0 technologies for participation can connect so many different parts of our lives. In fact their tagline says, “Join the community and vote to reveal the skewz in the news!”

Excerpt from Vippul’s work creating Skewz.com:

“I think Skewz is relevant because so many people are getting news and information about the political debate online these days. According to a recent Harris Interactive Poll, 22 percent of Republicans and 20 percent of Democrats regularly read blogs. Independents are the ones slightly more likely to read political blogs, at (26%). I think with so many people turning to the web for information, it’s important for them to know how what to look for and how to interpret all the information.”

Join Kathy and Paige as they discuss these questions…and much more…on Transformation Education Live!

Tech Tip:

• Gmail listen in to hear how to find all your unread email in one click!
• http://www.gmail.com

Join in the conversation live at our recordings or subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.Listen to us anytime, 24/7, on your favorite podcast catcher Google reader, iGoogle, Zencast, iTunes, or this website.Catch us live every 2 weeks- participate as part of the recording! check out our site for information

• Chat for live shows: http://www.blogtalk.radio.com/transformationed
• Phone in number for live shows (646) 716-9280
• You can also leave us a telephone message at 201-616-0561
  • (This is the line for Transformation Education!)

Subscribe with iTUNES itpc://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/transformationed

RSS feed http://feeds.feedburner.com/TransformationEducation

(C) Transformation Education LLC, 2007 -2008 www.transformationed.com

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This week Paige and Kathy jump into the fray of discussion about the Digital Divide. Exploring the topic from very different vantage points, they engage in a compelling conversation which tours the situation, issues and impact of this changing landscape. If you knew what the Digital Divide was before…listen in you might be surprised! All in only 30 minutes- what a quick discussion tech and impact on our lives in every episode.

• Just what is a digital divide?
• Is it real?
• How does it affect education in our country?
• Should we be worried?

Also included in this episode is an update on Dr. King’s speaking activities and discussions with educators around the world.

And as usual we have the weekly tech tip extravaganza-

• Everybody needs extra file storage space
• How about a free 6GB virtual drive?
• Paige has one for you- listen in!

Join Kathy and Paige as they discuss these questions…and much more…on Transformation Education Live!

Tech Tip:

• Gmail Drive http://www.viksoe.dk/code/gmail.htm

Digital Divide Resources and Articles

• Wikipedia (definition of digital divide): http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_divide
• Digital Divide Network: http://www.digitaldividenetwork.org/
• One Laptop Per Child: http://laptop.org/
• Virginia First State to Require Internet Safety Lessons
• GenYes project: http://www.genyes.com/
• Bridging the Digital Divide: http://education.zdnet.com/?p=1393

Join in the conversation live at our recordings or subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.Listen to us anytime, 24/7, on your favorite podcast catcher Google reader, iGoogle, Zencast, iTunes, or this website.Catch us live every 2 weeks- participate as part of the recording! check out our site for information

• Chat for live shows: http://www.blogtalk.radio.com/transformationed
• Phone in number for live shows (646) 716-9280
• You can also leave us a telephone message at 201-616-0561
  • (This is the line for Transformation Education!)

Subscribe with iTUNES itpc://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/transformationed

RSS feed http://feeds.feedburner.com/TransformationEducation

(C) Transformation Education LLC, 2007 -2008 www.transformationed.com

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Join Kathy and Paige to discuss how educating ourselves about our governmental process, the issues that define an election and the technologies that support the process are joined together. Terrific insights and experiences from your hosts as they discuss the background advances and implications of technology in the US democratic process.

• Do you know how tightly connected public education and voting are? Listen in as Kathy shares the history and meaning!
• Do you know why we use technology in voting booth snow? Paige tells us.
• How does technology -assisted voting empower elderly and disabled adults? Paige and Kathy share experiences!
• Have you, your family and friends registered to vote? it is just a click and a stamp away!

Join us for this fabulous technology and voting episode!

Tech Tip

• Register to vote- get your form online, print and mail!
• Rock the Vote: www.rockthevote.com
• Google keywords - register to vote online
• Google keywords - register to vote “your town or county”
• SHARE the wealth!
• Not everyone might be as computer savvy as you are- print a few extra copies of the voter registration form and give them to your unregistered family and friends and ask them to participate in this year’s Presidential Election!

Website Election Resources Mentioned

• You Tube: www.youtube.com
• Facebook: www.facebook.com
• My Space: www.myspace.com
• Citizen Journalists Cover US Election for Internet: http://tinyurl.com/3bgwnq

Join in the conversation live at our recordings or subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.Listen to us anytime, 24/7, on your favorite podcast catcher Google reader, iGoogle, Zencast, iTunes, or this website.Catch us live every 2 weeks- participate as part of the recording! check out our site for information

• Chat for live shows: http://www.blogtalk.radio.com/transformationed
• Phone in number for live shows (646) 716-9280
• You can also leave us a telephone message at 201-616-0561
  • (This is the line for Transformation Education!)

Subscribe with iTUNES itpc://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/transformationed

RSS feed http://feeds.feedburner.com/TransformationEducation

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(C) Transformation Education LLC, 2007 -2008 www.transformationed.com

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With Guest Author- Jeremy Sydik!On the last show, Paige and Kathy discussed what accessibility means, not just to technology users with disabilities, but to ALL users. This week, they share some accessibility tools for the designer AND the user! Join us as we have Jeremy Sydik, author- chime in on our discussion of making the web accessible for all. He the most humble guru of all! Great tips and insights- all around.

Check your pages and images with a good color and contrast testing tools

• Vischeck ( http://www.vischeck.com/) and
• Graybit ( http://www.graybit.com).

• Tools for people with disabilities that can help them navigate the internet
  • JAWS (Screen reader) (about $900)
  • ZoomText
  • AspireREADER™ 4.0 is an enhanced version of the CAST eReader 3.0 that helps struggling students improve reading and learning outcomes by providing access to digital talking books, webpages, and word processing through synchronized visual, auditory, and tracking feature functions. (MAC and Windows) about $400)
  • Accessibility features for ALL Windows products:
    • For example in Vista:
    • Narrator
    • Magnifier
    • Speech recognition
    • Filter keys
    • Visual notifications
    • Captions
    • On-screen keyboard
    • Screen brightness
  • Your computer manufacturer- look in your manufacturer- folder and help file on your computer- many have additional features now (for ex., HP, Toshiba, Apple, etc)
  • Wikipedia’s comparison of screen readers
  • Ergonomic issues - wrist rests, laptop stands, posture
    • From SpineUniverse (one of Kathy’s favorite sites)
    • An Ergonomic Task Force
    • Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)- you might not have carpal tunnel, but you might have these symptoms
    • Laptop stands- The Aviator by Keynamics LLC
      • Greg Bright CEO

  Website resources

  • Teaching Every Student http://www.cast.org/teachingeverystudent/

  To buy Jeremy Sydik ’s Book, Design Accessible Web Sites

  Visit Pragmatic Bookshelf web site

  • Where you can purchase either
    • the printed book,
    • a PDF version, or
    • a “combo pack” that contains both.
  • Please note- the PDF version is ONLY available at this web site

  Join in the conversation live at our recordings or subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.

  Listen to us anytime, 24/7, on your favorite podcast catcher Google reader, iGoogle, Zencast, iTunes, or this website.

  Catch us live every 2 weeks- participate as part of the recording! check out our site for information

  • www.blogtalk.radio.com/transformationed
  • Phone in number for live shows (646) 716-9280
  • You can also leave us a telephone message at 201-616-0561
  • (This is the line for Transformation Education!)
  • Subscribe with iTUNES

  itpc://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/transformationed

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© Transformation Education LLC, 2007 -2008 www.transformationed.com

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Accessibility Issues: Break Down the Barriers

People with disabilities ranging from visual and auditory impairments to mobility and cognitive challenges are finding that it’s becoming easier to get an education from the comfort of their homes. Well, it’s easy if the website they’re using is designed for accessibility. Lifelong learning is expected of every individual in the 21st century and advancement in the workplace (and certainly in education) is tied to learning new lessons and concepts. Join Kathy and Paige as they discuss the importance of providing accessible websites for education and lifelong learning and share some tips for creating them.

Quote of the Week: Yogi Berra once said, “In theory, there is no difference between theory and practice…in practice there is.”

This team always has plenty of new information to make our listeners the best at lifelong learning!

Tech Tip

Create a “Programs” folder on your desktop. Don’t like a crowded desktop but like to have your favorite programs right there for you? Create a folder on your desktop to store all your program shortcuts!

Resources mentioned in this episode

• Assistive Technology - any product or technology-based service that helps disabled people live, learn, work and enjoy life. Examples:
  • Screen Readers and magnifiers (some available in Windows OS now)
  • Refreshable Braile displays
  • Adaptive keyboards
  • Voice recognition software (some available in Windows OS now)
  • Single switches
• Equivalent vs alternative access
• Direct vs compatible access

Websites and Related Resources Mentioned

• WebAim, Web Accessibility In Mind www.webaim.org
• Article - A Public Consortium Emphasizes the Importance of LMS Accessibility
• National Center for Accessible Media http://ncam.wgbh.org/
• Usable Information Technology http://www.useit.com (includes Alertbox newsletter)
• Book - Design Accessible Web Sites: 36 Keys to Creating Content for All Audiences and Platforms by Jeremy Sydik
• Paige’s interview with Allison Sheridan of the NosillaCast - A Review of Jeremy’s book

Join in the conversation live at our recordings or subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.

Listen to us anytime, 24/7, on your favorite podcast catcher Google reader, iGoogle, Zencast, iTunes, or this website.

Catch us live every 2 weeks- participate as part of the recording! check out our site for information

• www.blogtalk.radio.com/transformationed
• Phone in number for live shows (646) 716-9280
• Subscribe with iTUNES

itpc://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/transformationed

RSS feed http://feeds.feedburner.com/TransformationEducation

 

(C) Transformation Education LLC, 2007 -2008 www.transformationed.com

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Digital Recorders, iPod Accessories and Free Converters- It’s a Tech-at-Home Extravaganza!

Kathy and Paige got so wrapped up in sharing all the technology activities that families can share that they decided to continue with the topic in this episode. From language learning to converting files, 2 yr olds to 90, and tax time to song and dance, this show keeps you up to date with how to use digital for family learning and enjoyment. Tune in to get a list to bring to YOUR family table!

Starting at top speed the dynamic duo spring from the starting gate and cover digital recording devices, iTunes podcasts for language learning and history and MS conversions?

You will not know what is coming next!

Tech Tips

• Microsoft Office Converter- Download other versions to yours- Free!
• Digital recording devices - A list of Vista compatible IC Recorders

 

Resources mentioned in this episode

• Digital recording devices
  • Sony ICD
  • Edirol R-09 http://www.edirol.net
    
  • Olympus digital recorders
  • iPod recording accessories- List from Macworld

• Podcasts
  • Learn Out Loud
  • Dan’s Math Podcast, a fun way to learn math!
  • ESLPODcast - Teaches English as a second language
  • Historical Reenactments - http://speakingofhistory.blogspot.com
  • Old Time Radio Style:
    • Science Fiction Theater - Sci fi
    • Decoder Ring Theater - Mysteries

Join in the conversation live at our recordings or subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.

Listen to us anytime, 24/7, on your favorite podcast catcher Google reader, iGoogle, Zencast, iTunes, or this website.

Catch us live every 2 weeks- participate as part of the recording! check out our site for information

• www.blogtalk.radio.com/transformationed
• Phone in number for live shows (646) 716-9280

Subscribe with iTUNES

itpc://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/transformationed

RSS feed http://feeds.feedburner.com/TransformationEducation

 

(C) Transformation Education LLC, 2007 -2008 www.transformationed.com

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