Week 5 Reflection
One of the major themes of this week’s learning was the focus of Web 2.0 tools. A web 2.0 tool is simply where a student can create, work on, or interact with other peers towards a common goal. One of the main quotes that stood out in this week’s reading was, “…one this is certain: we are at the very beginning of this evolution and many of you reading this book will be creating new ideas and projects that others will want to hear about…” (Solomon & Schrum). I find this to be true mainly because Web 2.0 tools simply provide a gateway to synergized world of student engagement. One of the Web 2.0 tools that I have started using ever since I had returned from TCEA is screencasting. Screencasting is simply recording activity from your computer and sharing it with the world. (In this case, my classes.) I have used screencasting to show students how to put spreadsheets together. Students really enjoy it mainly because they can go at their own pace, and do not have to wait for the teacher to come help them with step by step instructions.
Although Web 2.0 tools can be very powerful, we as educators must be very careful and not let the tool become a replacement for teaching. I have seen many teachers start using games and other “busy work” in the name of Web 2.0 tools. I believe that if use correctly, Web 2.0 tools can help students achieve greater success in the classroom.
Solomon, G., & Schrum, L. (2007). Web 2.0: New tools, new schools. Eugene, OR: International Technology in Education, 168-176.
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