Web 2.0 & Beyond..

 I'd be lying if I said I tried all of these Web 2.0 tools.  But, I have tried a few, and some I shall put in my tool box...

REFLECTING ON LEARNING:

         Events in my life may now be classified as either BW or AW (i.e. “Oh, that was me before Web 2.0.. I didn’t know any better” or “Yes, now in the time of ‘after Web 2.0’ things are done differently in my class. 

         I’m left with a feeling of being ‘updated’ and ‘upgraded.’  This course provided with me with a great in-depth look at a number of Web 2.0 tools.  I’m excited to re-enter the classroom this coming fall with new knowledge and a whole new set of tools and skills.  I’m confident that what I’ve gained will help me create an engaging 21^st century classroom. 

         One of the most powerful aspects of this course has been the inquiry process that we’ve taken throughout the weeks.  It has really put a sense of ownership and responsibility in my hands.

         I loved learning about wikis and I was so thankful that I was teaching at the time and got to try my hand at using on in the classroom.  I’m now back in that same classroom and my students are asking to use it once again!  The amazing discussions that were had were so powerful.  I really felt it gave a voice to the students in my class who are very shy within the classroom context.  It engaged my students and made them excited to read their novels and share their thoughts and connections with the class.

         One of the biggest challenges has been opening my mind to doing things differently.  I’ve only been teaching for five years, but already there are some techniques, strategies, and assignments that I enjoy and use regularly.  After taking this course I have come to accept that some of these will be adjusted, whereas others will fall by the wayside and be replaced by something more authentic and engaging.

          Another challenge would definitely be adjusting my online habits to become a more efficient internet user.  For example, using tools such as Google Reader are convenient and time saving, but were a struggle to adopt.  However, now that I have embraced it and re-trained myself, it’s easy to see the benefits.

         Socially, I would say this course has brought me closer to friends, but also more aware of what his happening both in my community and the world at large.  Being a member of Facebook has helped me to learn and connect with my friends, and by being a part of this network, I have learned about issues in the world, as my friends often post articles from around the world on current events and issues.

         Over the term, my colleagues have really helped me push my thinking.  Many of them are from different background and contexts and therefore provide a unique perspective.  Reading their blogs made me think of ways of utilizing Web 2.0 technologies in ways I hadn’t previously thought of or read about. They've caused me to re-think things... just as this video suggests Web 2.0 is encouraging us to do.

LOOKING AHEAD

         In my future, I see myself continuing to use Web 2.0 tools for personal use and definitely in my classroom, but also for Professional development and networking. 

         In terms of professional development, I will continue to engage in discussions in my ‘Ning’ networks, as well as with my colleagues new and old.  I will continue to stay connected to new and exiciting ideas through Twitter.

         In terms of teaching, I can’t wait to create a class blog, with links to my students’ blogs, links to educational websites, as well a link to our class wiki and pictures on Flikr.  I’ll call it our lauch pad to learning.  It’ll be our base from which to explore and learn. 


         However, I need to be cognizant of which tools to use and for what purposes.  Hoffman (2009) warns that, "a good teacher will use whatever tools she has to explain the content of her lessons, and does not over-rely on anything."  He goes on to warn that technology should not distract learning.  So, for example: when using a tool like Animoto, the tool is the vehicle to learning... to demonstrate learning.  It's not just learning about the tool.

         In terms of future learning, I want to further explore these tools, especially tools such as Voice thread, which I didn’t thoroughly try out. My students will hopefully be all the better for this exploration.  Hoffman (2009) suggests that students using Web 2.0 tools will help them to "develop skills they will need to use in the workplace or in college." How can we not help them prepare for these opportunities?

         So, that's all for now.  Until next time, happy Web 2.0 experiences to all, and to all a good night!

References:

Davies, M., & Merchant, G. (2009). Web 2.0 for schools. New York: Peter Lang.

Mollman, Steve.  Web 2.0-Savvy teachers testing old assumptions.

http://edition.cnn.com/2009/TECH/01/14/digitalbiz.techteachers/index.html