Module 9

Scootle

I was introduced to the Learning Federation at uni.  Scootle seems to be pretty much the same as it.  Scootle has some great interactives for use in the classroom.  Some are appropriate for the smartboard others work better for students to use individually on a computer.  The resources are a great way of exploring the content in a manner that is enjoyable for students, 

Social Networking

The teachers tv video was great and raised many interesting points – 90% of 15-24 year olds who use the internet use a social networking site- WOW!!!  I guess I am one person in those statistics as I have a facebook account which I use to stay in touch with friends and relatives.  However, I think that facebook is an inappropriate medium for the classroom.  Nonetheless I do think it is important that students are taught about digital footprints in relation to facebook and other social networking sites as well as cyber safety.  This needs to be explicitly taught because students will not necessarily just pick it up.   However I do think the collaborativeness of social networking is to be encouraged.  Students learn by explaining their thinking.  Social networking allows this to occur. 

Second Life

I began this module very sceptical of the use of second life in the classroom.  The youtube clips on the educational uses of second life was interesting.  However at this point I do not see myself using second life in the classroom.  I think there are other ways of achieving the same outcomes eg physical acting out rather than using second life.  I am happy to be convinced otherwise though. 

Facebook

As I said earlier in this blog, I do not think facebook has a place in the classroom.  However students may use facebook to communicate with each other about group assignments and homework.  However it should not be explicitly encouraged by the teacher.  The comment “All CEO staff must abide by the standards of professional conduct policy and these standards apply to content posted to social networking sites” reminded me of the firing of people regards to their inappropriate facebook posts.  It is important that we all realise the permancy of comments on facebook and other such sites.  It cannot be unsaid and it is there for the world to see.  Thus it is important not to post confidential or irresponsible comments.  It is also important that teachers are not friends with students online as this blurs the professional boundaries

Twitter

I know it is unsual considering I am of the generation Y but I am a bit of a twitter skeptic. I do not really use it.  However, we were introduced to twitter at uni as a means for engaging in professional dialogue and collaboration.  I can see the benefits for teachers to use to share ideas, resources and thoughts.  Twibes are a great way to facilitate virtual conversations with a number of people.  I can see twitter becoming more popular way to collaborate between teachers in the future. 

Cartoonise a photo at befunky!

Until next time, happy blogging

Cheers

Maria