Hi Everyone,
My name is Kendra Grant. This is my 5th course in the MET program. I live in Mississauga with my husband and two sons (one of which is in Teachers Collage!) I was a teacher for 23 years in a variety of positions with a focus on SPED, AT and IT. About 10 years ago I started working in the EdTech sector (as well as continuing to teach part-time). I was able to combine my interest in teacher professional learning and the creation of digital resources at was just the beginning of blended learning and cloud-based computing. About 5 years ago I co-founded a professional learning company out of Portland, Oregon. We created “just-in-time” instructional videos focused on the pedagogical (rather than how-to) aspects of technology integration. We created our own portal (a mistake in hindsight) and used a SaaS model for sales. I sold the company about a year ago to a company in New Jersey. I am still their chief education officer but I am also working on other projects including an online app and an interactive parent course (using Articulate Storyline). I am also fortunate to be an EdTech advisor at MaRS (www.marsdd.com). Over the past month I’ve met with and advised a few startups. Some are only service companies trying to create IP which makes for interesting discussions especially when they don’t have an educator on their team. It is also interesting to note how many entrepreneurs are looking to circumvent schools and teachers and market directly to parents. They see it as an easier (more profitable) sell. In addition, as an advisor I also get to see pitches from some of the more promising Canadian startups – this is always fun! (see below).
I look forward to learning with everyone this term.
Kendra
SingSpiel – I want to learn how to play!
[vimeo]https://vimeo.com/92193610[/vimeo]Vanhawks Valour – a connected bike
[youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ZMu3jlVGxU[/youtube]Bubl – insane 360 camera
[vimeo]https://vimeo.com/78130259[/vimeo]
Hi Kendra,
MVP indeed! It will be invaluable to have someone as experienced and knowledgeable as yourself on this course.
Chris
I’m not so sure about that, but thanks…I meant “minimum viable product” lol
Kendra
Looking forward to learning from you this semester Kendra. It appears as though you bring many valuable experiences to the group.
Monique
Hi Kendra!
It is very nice to e-meet you and thank you for your wonderful post. You already know so much it sounds like, especially in ventures!! I look forward to collaborating with you.
I believe we have a mutual friend
Danielle
Great video posts Kendra, I always find it fascinating to see what new projects/concepts people have been developing. I’m glad to be working with you again this term and am very much looking forward to your posts!
Most impressive, Kendra! And nice being classmates again. Look forward to your posts.
Kirsten
Hello Kendra,
Great to know about you.
Me and my husband are planning to develop our own interactive constructivist Math / English learning software program. We are new to this area and still just in the phase of developing a blueprint. I am sure we can learn a lot from you.
Sayali.
Hi Kendra,
Nice to meet you! How are you finding implementing Cloud based computing. I am new to the blended learning forum, would love to hear more about what you do!
Cheers,
Leah
Hi Kendra – a familiar “face”! So nice to see you again in this course. I look forward to working with, and learning from you again.
Katherine