I’ve been reflecting a lot on my own “creativity” regarding ELT and education in general. Probably because I’m starting into a new project and direction (stay tuned).
Over the last 30 years, I’ve dived into many online projects. Built everything on my own or with teams, even whole companies, in continual startup mode. I’ve reveled in the possibility that a little bit of tech knowledge gives. Just trying and seeing what happens, following the 37 signals principle of just “getting it live” and going from there.
It all started with my “Batcave” 2002. And from there, I was off to the races … building, creating, sharing. This interview with Larry Ferlazzo shares some of that.
So many things I’ve tried. Most have failed. Yes, sadly true but I’ve reconciled myself to this. It is part of the process.
See a list below. I’ve been very harsh about a passing grade. Some projects that “failed” are still awaiting a new person or possibility to get them going again (like TEFList). Some fell victim to a lot of passion but just bad timing in the marketplace. Some, just never had the time to really devote to it past getting it made. Others, just didn’t take for reasons I can’t divine. Such is life.
I’m proud of what did pass. These sites continue to help thousands of teachers every day. Free and represent an expression of my own will and contribution to the world of education. Some I do wish had had even more success (like Project Peace) but that’s life. It had its time and will have its time again, god willing.
We should all have the ability to muck about – I love that the internet allows us such.
One final comment. The internet is changing very fast. It is now very hard to start a community, to get traction with a website. For many reasons I won’t get into but things have changed. If you want to muck about online, do so for the mere joy of doing it, seeing it be built and be “alive”. Don’t do it expecting to be a success in the larger sense of the word – you’ll be in for a lot of heavy heartbreak.