What is it like to just have second years....

This year we only have second years at our summer institute.  This is very interesting.  It seems more relaxed.  We are all focused on the same process.  We don't have to balance rooms, activities, times to make it all fit.

We do miss the opportunities to share with the first years.  Having second years helping the first years overcome the emotional hurdles and technical hurdles was empowering for the second years.  We don't have that same opportunity. 

We have planned less 'workshops' and more learning time, exploration, and critical reflection.  Since everyone has a base level of technological ability, there is little need to provide that kind of workshop or support.  I hope that next year when we start with first years again that we will be able to keep this decreased focus on technology and greater focus on the educational issues around integrating technology.