As I look though the syllabus I see several internet tools that I look forward to learning. At first glance I would say I am most excited about learning more about social networks and how to use them for professional purposes. I am not a huge fan of social networks but I have talked to two coworkers that have had positive experiences with the use of Twitter. I would like to step outside of my comfort zone and learn how to use Twitter. I have begun to follow people on Twitter in Instructional Technology, math and STEM. My next goal is to feel confident enough to begin sharing activities and lessons on Twitter. I am open to learning how this and other social network platforms can benefit me professionally.
Last semester I ended the course with a video on virtual, augmented and mixed reality. Researching these realities was eye opening and I feel they have the potential to impact my professional practice and engage digital age learners. These realities provide me with the opportunity to take students places without leaving our classroom. I recently took a virtual field trip to EA Sports. Students are constantly talking about gaming and have dreams of being a game designer or tester. This virtual field trip gave me a look into opportunities I could not fathom if it had not been for this experience. In an age where I am preparing students for jobs I cannot imagine it is critical that I tap into the resources available to me.
Web 2.0 tools provide a variety of prospects for 21st century teaching and learning. These tools lend themselves for student to be able to work at their own pace, collaborate with one another, communicate with people around the world, create and share with others. Web 2.0 tools also make it possible for teachers to give students immediate and ongoing feedback, ownership of learning and the voice of choice.
Now more than ever we understand that students learn in different ways. It was once believed that we could teach 25 students one way. Now we want to be able to teach 25 students 25 ways if needed. With the use of web 2.0 tools we can support diverse learners. Through technologies we can find a variety of ways to meet the needs of all students.
[The Brainwaves Anthology]. (2014, May 5). Alan November-Who Owns the Learning? Preparing Students for Success in the Digital Age [Video File]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOAIxIBeT90.