WELSTech http://welstech.wels.net Thu, 16 May 2013 16:02:22 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1 288 – From Hong Kong to Sleepy Eye http://welstech.wels.net/2013/05/14/288-from-hong-kong-to-sleepy-eye/ http://welstech.wels.net/2013/05/14/288-from-hong-kong-to-sleepy-eye/#comments Wed, 15 May 2013 01:18:00 +0000 Sallie Draper http://welstech.wels.net/?p=6224 This week’s WELSTech Podcast spans the globe as Martin joins us from the future, 13 hours ahead in Hong Kong! We feature a wrap up of the Presentation Zen book discussion and a new “Listener Review” segment. Martin also shares his thoughts on his Windows Surface Pro tablet, which he deemed worthy of making the trip to Hong Kong.

Listen now or download Episode 288 (50:32)

The discussion:

How engaging! – Martin and Sallie reach the conclusion of our latest book discussion, Presentation Zen by Garr Reynolds (garrreynolds.com | @presentationzen), with a look at techniques for engaging your audience including getting rid of barriers, having the right equipment and keeping it real.

Listener reviews:

(19:40) This week we introduce a new feature on WELSTech … Listener Reviews.

  • Pastor Matt Arnold from St. Paul in Oconto Falls, WI kicks it off with his review of the Nexus 7 tablet.
  • Send us a video, audio or text review of your favorite tech-in-ministry product, and you’ll be entered into a drawing for great prizes!

Picks of the week:

Of interest:

  • (30:45) WELSTech Camp – September 14 at Martin Luther College – FREE!!
  • Google Education Summit – June 16-21 at Wisconsin Lutheran College – $200 registration discount with “WELSTech” promo code

Community feedback:

Coming up on WELSTech:

(45:30) Episode 289 – Martin and Sallie talk with Peter Frank from Concordia Technology Solutions about the online member database Church 360. (Release date – 05/21/13)

The featured artist:

(46:46) We close the podcast with the music of Michael Schroeder (www.michaelschroeder.com and on Facebook) – Holy Holy Holy

Get involved:

]]> http://welstech.wels.net/2013/05/14/288-from-hong-kong-to-sleepy-eye/feed/ 0 287 – Connected Youth http://welstech.wels.net/2013/05/07/287-connected-youth/ http://welstech.wels.net/2013/05/07/287-connected-youth/#comments Tue, 07 May 2013 07:56:50 +0000 Sallie Draper http://welstech.wels.net/?p=6179 Since it’s confirmation season, today’s WELSTech focus is keeping teens connected to the Word, and we look at ways technology may be able to assist. We also talk with Brandon Steenbock, who is serving “in the trenches” when it comes to youth ministry. There’s Google news, missionary videos and much more packed into this episode.

Listen now or download Episode 287 (54:48)

The discussion:

Relationships and Connections – Today’s youth are more plugged in than any previous generation, but before you connect in a digital fashion with them, it’s important to establish a face-to-face relationship. Martin and Sallie share ideas for making digital connections and keeping your communication safe.

The interview:

(8:36) Not Just an Event Organizer – Brandon Steenbock, Youth and Family Minister at St. Paul’s in New Ulm, MN, shares his experience with Martin and Sallie. From polling youth about their preferred communication channel (Facebook, Text or E-mail) to sharing video clips as discussion starters to engaging youth in summer mission trips, Brandon has had a variety of success in connecting with youth in his congregation.

Ministry resources:

(26:30) Bible Challenge from Back to the Bible

News in tech:

Picks of the week:

WELS.net feature:

(37:03) Check out the schedule of upcoming live streamed events including Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary and Martin Luther College graduation activities

Of interest:

  • (37:55)Google Education Summit will take place June 16-21 at Wisconsin Lutheran College
    • Use promo code “WELSTech” and receive a $200 discount on your registration!
  • The first ever WELSTech Camp unconference will be held September, 14 at Martin Luther College. For details and tickets for this free day, visit our event wiki.

Community feedback:

  • (40:22) Missionary Mike Hartman from Leon, Mexico shared a video recap of the recent Greek Fluency Workshop he attended in Israel
  • Summer #WELSed Twitter chat dates are June 13, July 11 and August 8
  • David Schumann from Peace in Janesville, WI is looking for a free or affordable automated solution for telephone messaging to members. Anyone have experience or a suggestion for David?
  • Via Diigo, we learned about …

Coming up on WELSTech:

(49:27) Episode 288 – This year’s book discussion of Presentation Zen by Garr Reynolds wraps up next week as we look at chapters 10 and 11 of the book. (Release date – 05/14/13)

The featured artist:

(50:03) We close the podcast with the music of  Mike Westendorf (www.mikewestendorf.com and mikewestendorf on Twitter) – Four To Go

Get involved:

]]> http://welstech.wels.net/2013/05/07/287-connected-youth/feed/ 0 286 – Learning To Look Back http://welstech.wels.net/2013/04/30/286-learning-to-look-back/ http://welstech.wels.net/2013/04/30/286-learning-to-look-back/#comments Tue, 30 Apr 2013 22:06:48 +0000 Sallie Draper http://welstech.wels.net/?p=6145 On this edition of WELSTech, we take a look back at some tech achievements in the 2012-13 school year, and we learn about a new resource web site for Lutheran teachers and administrators. Listen for a special discount on the upcoming Google Education Summit and a recap of the recent crowd-writing event sponsored by the Christ In Media Institute.

Listen now or download Episode 286 (1:05:22)

The discussion:

Year End Assessment – Gail Potratz, one of our semi-regular classroom technology correspondents from Emanuel in New London, WI shares highlights of the 2012-13 school year in terms of tech accomplishments. It’s no surprise that she has good things to say about her Google Apps and Chromebooks pilot program that was implemented this year. She also shares a flipped classroom method using the Explain everything iPad app which she says has become the standard production method in her school.

  • Google Education Summit will take place June 16-21 at Wisconsin Lutheran College
    • Use promo code “WELSTech” and receive a $200 discount on your registration!

The interview:

(23:39) Lutheran Schools Resources – Director of Lutheran Schools, Greg Schmill, and teacher Matt Groth from St. Paul’s in Saginaw, MI debut the recently redesigned Lutheran Schools web site which is loaded with great resources to address all types of teacher and administrator needs. The site also supports the ability for users to share files with others, so look for the site to grow as more WELS teachers begin to use it and share their own resources.

Picks of the week:

Of interest:

(52:47) Christ In Media Institute (CIMI) sponsored a crowd-writing event on April 29 to kick off the Bethany Lutheran College Media Week events. WELSTech friend, Jas Lonnquist, moderated the discussion. The Christian sci-fi premise was released in advance of the event and the discussion continues on the CIMI forums. You can still be part of the development of a future TV or Web broadcast.

Community feedback:

Coming up on WELSTech:

(1:01:22) Episode 287 – Confirmation season is upon us so our WELSTech discussion turns to keeping teens connected to God’s Word, including ways technology can help. Staff minister Brandon Steenbock joins Martin and Sallie to share his experience. (Release date – 05/07/13)

The featured artist:

(1:02:10) We close the podcast with the music of Stephen Bautista (www.stephenbautistamusic.com or stephenbautista on Twitter) - Flowers Are Dancing

Get involved:

]]> http://welstech.wels.net/2013/04/30/286-learning-to-look-back/feed/ 0 285 – Introducing Tech http://welstech.wels.net/2013/04/24/285-introducing-tech/ http://welstech.wels.net/2013/04/24/285-introducing-tech/#comments Wed, 24 Apr 2013 12:00:36 +0000 Sallie Draper http://welstech.wels.net/?p=6122 This week on the WELSTech Podcast we share ideas for successfully (and slowly) introducing tech in your congregation. We also share lots of new WELSTech goodies – from Twitter to Facebook to our very own Resources page. And we have something in our listener feedback mailbag for everyone. Keep calm and listen to WELSTech!

Listen now or download Episode 285 (1:21:38)

The interview & discussion:

(3:47) Slow and Steady – Are you ready to go digital with your church newsletter or add a projection screen in your sanctuary? On today’s WELSTech Martin and Sallie talk with Pastor Steve Schamber and Jason Petoskey from Holy Trinity in Wyoming, MI about their success with collaborative worship presentations. We also discuss ways to implement all types of tech in your congregation.

News in tech:

(40:53) Happy World Book Night 2013

Picks of the week:

Of interest:

Community feedback:

Coming up on WELSTech:

(1:15:29) Episode 286 – Next week Gail Potratz, one of our semi-regular classroom technology correspondents, joins the conversation with Martin and Sallie to take a look at the waning school year from an ed tech perspective – what worked and what didn’t in the 2012-13 classroom. (Release date – 04/30/13)

The featured artist:

(1:16:16) This week we close the podcast with the music of Kevin Loersch - Love Beyond All Telling

Get involved:

]]> http://welstech.wels.net/2013/04/24/285-introducing-tech/feed/ 0 284 – Building A Specialized Digital Ministry http://welstech.wels.net/2013/04/16/284-building-a-specialized-digital-ministry/ http://welstech.wels.net/2013/04/16/284-building-a-specialized-digital-ministry/#comments Wed, 17 Apr 2013 02:10:34 +0000 Sallie Draper http://welstech.wels.net/?p=6083 On this edition of WELSTech, we discuss ideas and examples of digital outreach web sites, podcasts, video channels and e-news including the Bread For Beggars site started in the WELS South Atlantic District. It may be our longest episode ever, but you’ll want to hang on for all the picks, WELS.net features and community feedback goodness we’ve packed into this show!

Listen now or download Episode 284 (1:21:14)

The discussion:

Niche Evangelism – Going beyond traditional church web sites, many people are using creative digital content to reach out with the good news of Jesus Christ. Martin and Sallie take a whirl-wind tour of specialized digital ministry efforts across the web and discuss tools and channels you can use for your own outreach as part of congregation efforts or on a personal level.

The interview:

(25:06) The Bread of Life – Pastor Mark Parsons from Christ the King in Port Charlotte, FL and Matt Visaggio talk with Martin and Sallie about the web site Bread for Beggars, an outreach focused site started in WELS South Atlantic District.

Picks of the week:

WELS.net feature:

(53:53) Check out WELS’ brand new Spanish outreach site, El Mensajero Luterano

Of interest:

(56:25) Register online to attend the first WELSTech Camp, a free un-conference coming up September 14 at Martin Luther College. Check out the link for all the details including a Friday night meet-up and deals on hotels in the area.

Community feedback:

Coming up on WELSTech:

(1:14:38) Episode 285 – Next week Martin and Sallie will explore ideas to introduce technology in your congregation and talk with Pastor Steve Schamber and Jason Petoskey about the use of Logos Proclaim for worship projection at Holy Trinity in Wyoming, MI. (Release date – 04/23/13)

The featured artist:

(1:15:39) We close today’s WELSTech with the music of Joey Schumann and the Lutheran Ceili Orchestra (JoeySchumann.com | Joey on Facebook) – Christ Be Beside Me

Get involved:

]]> http://welstech.wels.net/2013/04/16/284-building-a-specialized-digital-ministry/feed/ 1 283 – Garr Connects With His Audience! http://welstech.wels.net/2013/04/09/garr-connects-with-his-audience/ http://welstech.wels.net/2013/04/09/garr-connects-with-his-audience/#comments Tue, 09 Apr 2013 07:31:38 +0000 Sallie Draper http://welstech.wels.net/?p=6049 Today on the WELSTech Podcast we continue our Presentation Zen book discussion with a dive into the chapter 9 topic, audience engagement. We also take a look at a brand new ministry resource as Martin demos the Who Is Jesus? iBook, and we catch up on lots of great listener feedback.

Listen now or download Episode 283 (46:58)

The discussion:

Dull presentations forbidden – Leading off with an e-mail message from Presentation Zen author, Garr Reynolds (garrreynolds.com | @presentationzen), Martin and Sallie discuss chapter 9 of the book which focuses on the important skill of connecting with your audience during a presentation. Listen for the secret weapons they use to engage their audience.

Ministry resource:

(15:22) Who is Jesus? iBook

Picks of the week:

Community feedback:

Coming up on WELSTech:

(42:27) Episode 284 – Pastor Mark Parsons and Matt Visaggio share their work on BreadForBeggars.com, and we consider other specialty ministry sites. (Release date – 04/16/13)

The featured artist:

(44:19) We close with the music of WELS musician and staff minister Benhur Khamrang (Reverbnation) – Brothers, Sisters, Let Us Gladly

Get involved:

]]> http://welstech.wels.net/2013/04/09/garr-connects-with-his-audience/feed/ 0 282 – Going Beyond Cat Videos http://welstech.wels.net/2013/04/02/282-going-beyond-cat-videos/ http://welstech.wels.net/2013/04/02/282-going-beyond-cat-videos/#comments Tue, 02 Apr 2013 13:38:20 +0000 Sallie Draper http://welstech.wels.net/?p=5992 Today’s WELSTech Podcast covers ways to use your mobile photo or tablet photography in ministry. We also talk with designer Corissa Nelson about ways she lets her light shine through her online business, image donations to WELS and design work for her local congregation.

Listen now or download Episode 282 (47:54)

The discussion:

The best camera … – Martin and Sallie talk about the meteoric rise in prevalence of “pocketography” – using cameras on smartphones and tablets to easily capture and share images – and ways which these cameras can aid the work of churches, schools and individuals.

The interview:

(19:50) Letting Her Light Shine Through Art – Corissa Nelson, member of Our Savior in Grafton, WI, talks with Martin and Sallie about her design business and the ways she uses her gifts to God’s glory in her church, the synod and beyond.

News in tech:

(33:40) Grace Lutheran principal Peter Iles garners Google’s attention

Picks of the week:

Of interest:

(40:57) WELSTech Camp will run from 8:30 AM until 4:00 PM and plans are for 4 one-hour discussion time slots plus lunch, snacks and giveaways. Join the conversation on September 14 at Martin Luther College!

Community feedback:

Coming up on WELSTech:

(45:02) Episode 283 – Connecting with an audience is important to any public speaker and the topic of next week’s podcast discussion as we continue reviewing Presentation Zen by Garr Reynolds. (Release date – 04/09/13)

The featured artist:

(45:50) We close the podcast with the music of The Branches Band (www.branchesband.com|Facebook) - This Is The Day The Lord Has Made

Get involved:

]]> http://welstech.wels.net/2013/04/02/282-going-beyond-cat-videos/feed/ 1 281 – Classroom Video http://welstech.wels.net/2013/03/26/281-classroom-video/ http://welstech.wels.net/2013/03/26/281-classroom-video/#comments Tue, 26 Mar 2013 07:27:10 +0000 Sallie Draper http://welstech.wels.net/?p=5974 This week on WELSTech we welcome one of our semi-regular classroom technology correspondents, Jason Schmidt, and we share video resources for the classroom. There’s also a special announcement about an upcoming event which you won’t want to miss!

Listen now or download Episode 281 (52:10)

The discussion:

Video in K-12 – Martin and Sallie, along with guest host Jason Schmidt from Bennington ISD near Omaha, NE, talk about the many video resources for K-12 education available on the web, including several that are part of WELS Lutheran Schools annual subscription option.

Picks of the week:

Of interest:

  • (35:20) You are invited to be part of the first ever WELSTech Camp coming up September 14 at Martin Luther College

Community feedback:

Coming up on WELSTech:

(46:23) Episode 282 – Tune in next week for our interview with designer Corissa Nelson and a discussion of mobile photography. (Release date – 04/02/13)

The featured artist:

(47:20) We close the podcast with the music of Corban Creek – Empty Grave

Get involved:

]]> http://welstech.wels.net/2013/03/26/281-classroom-video/feed/ 0 280 – Where’d My Bible Go? http://welstech.wels.net/2013/03/19/280-whered-my-bible-go/ http://welstech.wels.net/2013/03/19/280-whered-my-bible-go/#comments Tue, 19 Mar 2013 19:36:44 +0000 Sallie Draper http://welstech.wels.net/?p=5944 This week the WELSTech Podcast says goodbye to two favorites; the NIV 84 Bible translation is no longer available digitally and Google announced they will be shuttering Google Reader on July 1. We look at what’s available to fill the gap these two great tools leave behind.

Listen now or download Episode 280 (58:06)

The interview & discussion:

(3:40) Pastor Jon Schroeder from Faith in Sharpsburg, GA and a member of the Translation Feasibility Study group talks with Martin and Sallie about Bible translations, including what choices the online/digital Bible reader has today.

Ministry resources:

(30:08) My Sunday Solutions

News in tech:

(32:52) Google Reader is Going Away July 1 - Alternatives:

Picks of the week:

Community feedback:

Coming up on WELSTech:

(53:40) Episode 281 – Next week Jason Schmidt, one of our semi-regular classroom technology correspondents, joins the conversation with Martin and Sallie to talk about classroom video sites. (Release date – 03/26/13)

The featured artist:

(54:18) We  close the podcast with the music of Dawn Michelle Williams (www.dawnmichellewilliams.com | Twitter | Facebook) - Where I Belong

Get involved:

]]> http://welstech.wels.net/2013/03/19/280-whered-my-bible-go/feed/ 0 279 – Being In The Moment http://welstech.wels.net/2013/03/12/279-being-in-the-moment/ http://welstech.wels.net/2013/03/12/279-being-in-the-moment/#comments Wed, 13 Mar 2013 01:50:03 +0000 Sallie Draper http://welstech.wels.net/?p=5918 Today’s WELSTech Podcast features a continuation of the Presentation Zen book discussion and an interview with Prepared to Answer author Professor Mark Paustain. It’s all about being engaged in the moment, and sometimes that results in great ideas for WELS apps!

Listen now or download Episode 279 (56:36)

The discussion:

A double-header book discussion – Martin and Sallie hit the WELSTech book discussion again, this week looking at chapters 7 & 8 of Presentation Zen by Garr Reynolds. Check out the links below for examples of great presentation visuals mentioned in chapter 7 and listen for tips of being an engaged presenter.

The interview:

(13:03) Answering with a story – Pastor and Communications Professor Mark Paustain from Martin Luther College joins Martin to talk about using narrative or storytelling as a memorable and indirect way to share important gospel truths. He also shares tips for communicating effectively with digital natives in the digital age.

Picks of the week:

Community feedback:

Coming up on WELSTech:

(51:24) Episode 280 – Pastor Jon Schroeder from Faith in Sharpsburg, GA talks with Martin and Sallie about Bible translations. (Release date – 03/19/13)

The featured artist:

(52:46) We close the podcast with the music of  Revelation, a music ministry of Wisconsin Lutheran College - Via Dolorosa

Get involved:

]]> http://welstech.wels.net/2013/03/12/279-being-in-the-moment/feed/ 0 278 – Author! Author! http://welstech.wels.net/2013/03/05/278-author-author/ http://welstech.wels.net/2013/03/05/278-author-author/#comments Wed, 06 Mar 2013 03:06:49 +0000 Sallie Draper http://welstech.wels.net/?p=5863 This week on the WELSTech Podcast we talk with Pastor Rob Guenther, a long time WELSTech contributor, about his gospel outreach publishing efforts and Martin has a geeky RSS-to-bookmark-bar solution to share.

Listen now or download Episode 278 (59:44)

The interview & discussion:

(2:54) Hall of Fame – Pastor Rob Guenther from Grace in Kenai, AK talked with Martin and Sallie about his recent self-publishing efforts which resulted in both an Amazon paperback and e-book listing of a collection of his sermons titled In Their Sandals. Penning your own book isn’t as hard as it sounds thanks to some amazing (and free) web 2.0 tools.

Ministry resources:

(29:55) Study guides and reviews of The Bible miniseries created by Pastor Jon Schroeder from Faith in Sharpsburg, GA

News in tech:

Picks of the week:

Community feedback:

Coming up on WELSTech:

(53:49) Episode 279 – Next week on WELSTech Martin and Sallie talk with Pastor and MLC Communications Professor Mark Paustian and look at chapter 7 of Presentation Zen. (Release date – 03/12/13)

The featured artist:

(54:40) We close the podcast with music and video from Koine’s new Footsteps to the Cross concert DVD (koinemusic.com | DVD info) – Jesus, Grant that Balm and Healing

Get involved:

]]> http://welstech.wels.net/2013/03/05/278-author-author/feed/ 1 277 – You’re Gonna Flip! http://welstech.wels.net/2013/02/26/277-youre-gonna-flip/ http://welstech.wels.net/2013/02/26/277-youre-gonna-flip/#comments Tue, 26 Feb 2013 19:54:25 +0000 Sallie Draper http://welstech.wels.net/?p=5839 This week we turn WELSTech upside down as we discuss the growing “flipped classroom” trend with our semi-regular classroom technology correspondent, Gail Potratz.

Listen now or download Episode 277 (47:55)

The discussion:

Flipped Classrooms – The idea of providing instructional resources for students to consume at their own pace outside of the classroom and then dedicating classroom time to exploration and individual assistance on a topic is the concept behind “flipping” your classroom. Gail Potratz, Technology Coordinator at Emanuel in New London, WI, joins Martin and Sallie to discuss the basics for flipping lessons, tools to use and some early feedback on outcomes of this technique.

Ministry resources:

(23:47) WordPress for Classrooms

Picks of the week:

Community feedback:

Coming up on WELSTech:

(44:05) Episode 278 – Pastor Rob Guenther will join Martin and Sallie from Kenai, AK next week and share his tech-in-ministry success stories including his recent self-publishing efforts. (Release date – 03/05/13)

The featured artist:

(44:22) Another new WELS recording artist joins the WELSTech lineup today as we share the music of Michael Armstrong (pinemountainmusic.com) - Overwhelmed

Get involved:

]]> http://welstech.wels.net/2013/02/26/277-youre-gonna-flip/feed/ 0 276 – Let’s Collaborate! http://welstech.wels.net/2013/02/19/276-lets-collaborate/ http://welstech.wels.net/2013/02/19/276-lets-collaborate/#comments Wed, 20 Feb 2013 00:04:00 +0000 Sallie Draper http://welstech.wels.net/?p=5815 On this edition of the WELSTech Podcast we share many web-based (and often free) tools which assist with all types of collaboration including sharing documents and calendars, creating mind maps and wikis, and holding private conversations and video conference calls.

Listen now or download Episode 276 (47:18)

The discussion:

Working together online – Martin and Sallie share scenarios for online collaboration in church and school ministry and a list of web-based tools that can assist with that process.

The interview:

(21:24) Global collaboration – Pastor Brad Wordell, who serves our synod as Missionary to Japan as well as Coordinator of Asia Publications for Multi-Language Publications, sat down with Martin recently to talk about the management tasks involved in translating gospel resources into many new languages. That work is made easier with the use of online collaborative tools.

Picks of the week:

Community feedback:

Coming up on WELSTech:

(45:08) Episode 277 – You’ll flip over next weeks edtech discussion of flipped classrooms, featuring Gail Potratz in the guest host chair. (Release date – 02/26/13)

The featured artist:

(45:45) We close the podcast with the debut of a new WELS artist, pianist Kirk Meyer (www.kirkmeyer.com) - Chief of Sinners Though I Be

Get involved:

]]> http://welstech.wels.net/2013/02/19/276-lets-collaborate/feed/ 0 275 – Before and After http://welstech.wels.net/2013/02/12/275-before-and-after/ http://welstech.wels.net/2013/02/12/275-before-and-after/#comments Tue, 12 Feb 2013 19:10:54 +0000 Sallie Draper http://welstech.wels.net/?p=5789 This week on the WELSTech Podcast we review key design principles for effective presentations and talk about a new web find for easy project management.

Listen now or download Episode 275 (46:53)

The discussion:

Design Principles – Martin and Sallie return to their book discussion of  Presentation Zen, by Garr Reynolds, with a look at chapter 6 of the book. This chapter is “worth the price of admission” because of the many before and after slide transformations which are demonstrated.  Concepts of signal-to-noise ratio, respect for empty space, imagery, and concept alignment are discussed.

Sources for stock photography:

Ministry resources:

(15:43) Glo Bible 1.4.3 Update available to fix issues with notes, crashes and synchronization

Picks of the week:

Of interest:

Community feedback:

Coming up on WELSTech:

(40:17) Episode 276 – Next week’s podcast is dedicated to those who want to start collaborating online, and Martin interviews Missionary Brad Wordell about the collaborative work being done by translators through Multi-Language Publications. (Release date – 02/19/13)

The featured artist:

(41:30) We close the podcast with the music of Cross To Glory (www.facebook.com/crosstoglory) - Rescued

Get involved:

]]> http://welstech.wels.net/2013/02/12/275-before-and-after/feed/ 0 274 – Digital Learning Day http://welstech.wels.net/2013/02/05/274-digital-learning-day/ http://welstech.wels.net/2013/02/05/274-digital-learning-day/#comments Wed, 06 Feb 2013 01:48:56 +0000 Sallie Draper http://welstech.wels.net/?p=5761 Today the WELSTech Podcast celebrates Distance Learning Day with ideas for raising awareness of your school’s technology offerings as well as an interview with Profs. Jim Grunwald and Rich Gurgel about the synod school’s online offerings.

Listen now or download Episode 274 (50:50)

The discussion:

Worth celebrating – February 6 is Digital Learning Day, and Martin and Sallie share ideas for celebrating the many ways education is changing as more and more schools integrate technology.

The interview:

(12:04) Profs. in Digital Ed – Dr. Jim Grunwald from Martin Luther College and Pastor Richard Gurgel from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary join Martin and Sallie to discuss the current distance education initiatives being offered by synod schools.

News in tech:

Picks of the week:

Community feedback:

Coming up on WELSTech:

(48:28) Episode 275 – Martin and Sallie return to their current book discussion, looking at chapter 6 of Presentation Zen. (Release date – 02/12/13)

The featured artist:

(49:20) We close the podcast with the instrumental music of In His Service (www.adagioconcepts.com) - Go To Dark Gethsemane

Get involved:

]]> http://welstech.wels.net/2013/02/05/274-digital-learning-day/feed/ 0 273 – The Un-Conference http://welstech.wels.net/2013/01/29/273-the-un-conference/ http://welstech.wels.net/2013/01/29/273-the-un-conference/#comments Tue, 29 Jan 2013 19:50:34 +0000 Sallie Draper http://welstech.wels.net/?p=5732 This week on the WELSTech Podcast learn about EdCamp, a grass-roots, free conference format that is spreading across the country.  Chances are there is an un-conference EdCamp scheduled near you, and on today’s WELSTech you’ll hear about what to expect when you attend.

Listen now or download Episode 273 (53:43)

The interview & discussion:

(3:46) No red jello – Jason Schmidt, Tech Coordinator for Bennington ISD near Omaha, NE, returns to the edtech guest host chair to join Martin and Sallie for a discussion of the EdCamp “un-conference” format.  Emily Dittmar (@MsDittmar on Twitter), a Library Media Specialist in the Marshall, WI public school system and EdCamp organizer, also talks with us about her experience of collaboration and networking among all types of educators and administrators in a relaxed, unplanned structure at EdCamps.

Picks of the week:

Community feedback:

Coming up on WELSTech:

(49:40) Episode 274 – Next week on WELSTech Martin and Sallie celebrate Digital Learning Day and talk with Jim Grunwald from Martin Luther College and Rich Gurgel from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary about WELS digital education. (Release date – 02/05/13)

The featured artist:

(50:36) We close the podcast with the music of Corban Creek – Home Above

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]]> http://welstech.wels.net/2013/01/29/273-the-un-conference/feed/ 2 272 – A Podcasting Podcast http://welstech.wels.net/2013/01/22/272-a-podcasting-podcast/ http://welstech.wels.net/2013/01/22/272-a-podcasting-podcast/#comments Tue, 22 Jan 2013 20:06:53 +0000 Sallie Draper http://welstech.wels.net/?p=5707 This week WELSTech is all about how to create, produce and distribute podcasts, and we’ve recruited some of our favorite WELS podcasters to aid in the discussion. We set a new record for picks of the week, and there’s a cool new ministry resource and some great advice about web site images to boot!

Listen now or download Episode 272 (54:30)

The discussion:

Podcasting 101 – Pastor Tom Barthel from Christ in Baxter, MN, Philip Wels and Bob Martens join Martin and Sallie for what could be characterized as a robust conversation about podcasting, complete with a Google Hangouts crash to keep things real. Learn tips and tools for creating and sustaining your own podcast.

Ministry resources:

(28:47) PrayrList

Picks of the week:

Community feedback:

Coming up on WELSTech:

(50:17) Episode 273 – Teachers will want to tune in next week as Jason Schmidt and Emily Dittmar join us for an overview of the EdCamp “un-conference” format. (Release date – 01/29/13)

The featured artist:

(51:07) We close the podcast with the music of Stephen Bautista (www.stephenbautistamusic.com or stephenbautista on Twitter) - Who Will Tell Them

Get involved:

]]> http://welstech.wels.net/2013/01/22/272-a-podcasting-podcast/feed/ 0 271 – Pinterest, Finally! http://welstech.wels.net/2013/01/15/271-pinterest-finally/ http://welstech.wels.net/2013/01/15/271-pinterest-finally/#comments Wed, 16 Jan 2013 00:00:41 +0000 Sallie Draper http://welstech.wels.net/?p=5670 This week the WELSTech Podcast is going “all in” with Pinterest, today’s top social network for the visually inclined. Listen for ways to use Pinterest to spread the good news!

Listen now or download Episode 271 (57:28)

The discussion:

A picture is worth … – Listen up ladies as WELSTech takes on the female dominated social network sensation, Pinterest. Martin and Sallie discuss the reasons churches may consider having a Pinterest presence and share ideas for pin boards themes that would work well for churches such as special holidays, inspirational imagery, advocating the church town, and a church events scrapbook.

The interview:

(14:05) Pinning the Good News – Katy Klinnert-Ellison, Creative Marketing Manager at Time of Grace, talks with Martin about the development of their Pinterest page and ideas for congregations who want to use Pinterest for outreach.

News in tech:

(30:41) From the Bible Glo Blog – Notes not appearing and other issues related to the latest release

Picks of the week:

WELS.net Features:

(38:54) New Calendar Desktop Wallpapers from Streams

Community feedback:

Coming up on WELSTech:

(51:41) Episode 272 – Tune in next week as we gather a “Podcasting Posse” including Pastor Tom Barthel, Philip Wels and Bob Martens to talk about how to produce your own podcast to spread the gospel. (Release date – 01/22/13)

The featured artist:

(52:25) This week we close with the instrumental music of flutist Jeannine Dennis - Celebration Medley

Get involved:

]]> http://welstech.wels.net/2013/01/15/271-pinterest-finally/feed/ 3 270 – Keep It Simple in 2013 http://welstech.wels.net/2013/01/08/270-keep-it-simple-in-2013/ http://welstech.wels.net/2013/01/08/270-keep-it-simple-in-2013/#comments Tue, 08 Jan 2013 18:19:38 +0000 Sallie Draper http://welstech.wels.net/?p=5649 This week as we begin the 6th year of the WELSTech Podcast we look at reasons for simplifying presentations. We also share loads of great ministry resources, WELS.net finds and picks, plus a ton of terrific finds from WELSTech listeners.

Listen now or download Episode 270 (57:23)

The discussion:

A Story of Fresh Fish – Martin and Sallie kick off their sixth year of podcasting with the continuing discussion of the current WELSTech book selection, Presentation Zen, by Garr Reynolds. Chapter 5 of the book, titled “Simplicity: Why It Matters,”  looks at the benefits of simple, uncluttered slide design which communicates subtle, elegant messages.

Ministry resources:

Picks of the week:

WELS.net Features:

Community feedback:

Coming up on WELSTech:

(51:55) Episode 271 -Is there a place for the popular social image sharing site Pinterest in your ministry communication plan? Martin poses this important question and Sallie enjoys the response! (Release date – 01/15/13)

The featured artist:

(53:16) We close with the WELSTech debut of WELS musician and staff minister Benhur Khamrang (Reverbnation) – Amazing Grace

Get involved:

]]> http://welstech.wels.net/2013/01/08/270-keep-it-simple-in-2013/feed/ 0 269 – 7 Best Picks of 2012 http://welstech.wels.net/2013/01/01/269-7-best-picks-of-2012/ http://welstech.wels.net/2013/01/01/269-7-best-picks-of-2012/#comments Tue, 01 Jan 2013 12:00:18 +0000 Sallie Draper http://welstech.wels.net/?p=5608 This week WELSTech welcomes 2013 with a countdown of Martin & Sallie’s 7 Best Picks of the Year 2012. How many of these hardware, software, web and mobile apps do you use?

Listen now or download Episode 269 (48:57)

The discussion:

Best of the Best – To kick off the new year, Martin and Sallie share their annual picks of the year for 2012 in “7 Best” style.

Sallie’s Picks

  1. Pomodoro Productivity | Focus Time app
  1. Raspberry Pi
  1. Logitech Tablet Keyboard for iPad
  1. FreeBibleImages.org
  1. MathCounts
  1. Pinterest
  1. PicMonkey

Martin’s Picks

  1. Camtasia Studio
  1. Samsung Galaxy S III
  1. Google 2-Step Verification
  1. Google Drive
  1. Logitech Ultrathin Keyboard Cover for iPad
  1. Presentation Zen
  1. Google Hangouts

Coming up on WELSTech:

(43:48) Episode 270 – Join Martin and Sallie for the start of year 6 of WELSTech and chapter 5 of our WELSTech book discussion of Presentation Zen by Garr Reynolds. (Release date – 01/08/13)

The featured artist:

Get involved:

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