To start with, what is an Apple Distinguished Educator?

I was keen to find out more and really get into the role, having been selected for the Class of 2013 after a long application process.  I’ll let this clip tell you all about ADE-ness – it’s a beautiful production from Apple that says more than I possibly could in an incredibly powerful, and visual, way.

This was the presentation that began the Institute and set the tone of the whole event.  It was humbling to think that those elegant words were intended to describe little me!

In a few words, ADEs are…

* trusted advisors

* authentic authors

* global ambassadors

* passionate advocates

…and we all gathered in beautiful Bali at the Apple Institute.  This introductory week of learning was crucial for educators new to the program, a huge event supported by a range of creative Apple staff and guests as well as ADE Alumni.  It was a chance to connect and collaborate with each other.  The networking was powerful and educators shared ideas in a range of presentations, workshops, and discussions.  There was so much information – not only did most participants carry three or four devices connected to the wifi – they weren’t afraid to use them!

Some personal highlights… As an artist, how could you beat standing on a hilltop with Bill Frakes, world-renown sports photographer, snapping pictures, getting tips and watching him fire away on his camera?  It was a great experience – we talked about iPhoneography, how to use apps to support students to use their equipment and he shared his vision of photography as a medium he uses to ‘paint with light’.  Bill Rankin blew us away with his Keynote mastery.  He then took us through dynamic ways to present content to enhance learning and gave us insight into how to create professional visuals.  Rebecca Stockley gave us the words to tell our stories, we checked out new skills in Aperture, Final Cut Pro, Garage Band and got into iTunes U.  Challenge Based Learning was a focus of the Institute and with the informaton presented to us I am now keem to bring some of these experiences into my classroom in the future.

The Institute was an extraordinary opportunity to mix with extraordinary people.  Just being surrounded by like-minded people, being a part of the fascinating dialogue was invigorating.  In every conversation there were things to learn, profound lessons.  It wasn’t just that every member of this community had a wealth of experience and exceptional teaching pedagogy, everyone had a unique vision, an impressive skill set and they were all making a difference.  Their willingness to listen and their generosity in sharing was inspirational.  I know I have come home with so many ideas and projects, but more  importantly I feel empowered to make them happen.  Of course, I now also have some wonderful people I can call to help, some I know will be lifelong friends.

So, what now?  Content creation has begun.  With the knowledge we were given in sessions tailored to our individual needs, we are now ready to start using iBooks Author and other outlets to publish our work – lessons and pedagogies built on our passion.  It is the beginning of a journey to showcase the incredible work ADEs do all around the world.  Our contributions and content will be soon be shared as resources to help other educators see what is possible using Apple technology in a 21 Century learning environment.

To Apple, thanks for a wonderful journey – it’s exciting to think this is just the beginning!  And to the ADE community, I am really looking forward to working with you all.

Australian & New Zealand ADEs in Bali (thank you for the image, Daniel Woo!)

NOTE: Since this post being published, the ADE’s in the American zone have gathered and Tech Girl Jenny has created an excellent post with links to a range of reflections you can explore.