JOIN AN EVENT!

Okay, you've seen some topics and you've found an event you'd like to join, so how do you do it?

• About 10 minutes or so before the event is scheduled to begin, log onto Tapped In.
• Click the Tapped In tab at the top right of the page and the calendar tab to the left.
• Click the event you want to join.
• In the next window, you'll see a description of that event.
  
• Click the door icon under the Event Room entry to enter the conversation. That's it!

The event will begin with a welcome by the moderator. Then everyone introduces themselves. Until you type something, people do not know you're there. It's considered good etiquette to at least say, "My name is Mary and this is my first time here. I'm mostly going to be listening in." Then feel free to just read along. You don't have to type if you'd rather not.

The moderator will have some ideas to discuss. Feel free to bring ideas, concerns, and suggestions -- or just come with an open mind. Also, watch how others write in short phrases or sentences. It's different than the way we normally write, but it's easy to pick up! Remember as well that the moderator (or other participants) can link to Web sites for others to look at. The moderator might have files (like a syllabus or lesson plan) for you to view as well.

A transcript will be e-mailed to you after the group is over, so don't feel as though you have to remember every great idea you find in the event!

Next: Be a groupie.