Web 2.0

kpitchford — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 21:43:41 +0000

When Dr. Dail first mentioned the term, “Web 2.0″ I was more confused than I have ever been in reference to technology. I have grown up in a household where there has always been computers and connection to the internet. I thought I was aware of most of the general terms, this new word seemed like Greek to me, like it was a brand new language. After viewing the video on YouTube that was assigned on the first day I felt much more at ease about this new “Web 2.0.” Without realizing it I have been using this form of technology for several years! Take a look at my personal ”revelation” video below.

A part of Web 2.0 that I am the most familiar with is probably very similar to the rest of my peers is that of the social networking site of Facebook. I have heard all the hype that it is inappropriate for teachers, or even future teachers for that matter, should not have a Facebook because of the social ramifications that come along with it. However, I feel like it is unfair to teachers and potential teachers to be forbidden from access to Facebook. I originally lived in Illinois and the only contact that I have with several childhood friends is through Facebook. I am not willing to give that up. I do realize that Facebook CAN be a dangerous thing for an educator but I believe if I am careful about monitoring it then there is nothing to worry about. Already I am monitoring my site to not allow inappropriate comments. My friends know that cursing is not allowed on my page. When it happens the first time I will delete the post immediately and send them a gentle reminder. If it happens again that person will be removed from my friend’s list. I know that future employers will be looking at this before I can get a job. Look at this article that actually supports people having a Facebook and using it as a valuable communication tool. It also squashes several arguments on how Facebook is simply a waste of time. When I actually start teaching I will not delete my Facebook, I will continue to operate with it and communicate! Below is a screenshot of my Facebook, notice you will not find anything inappropriate information on it!

I am looking forward to implementing Web 2.0 in my classroom! I know that I will have a class blog accessible to my students so they can access homework and other important files. In Richardson’s book I completely agree when she said that it was so nice not to have to shuffle around for that assignment that was already passed out! I can just direct the student to the blog. It will also be convenient when a students misses class and the inevitable question, “What did we do yesterday?” I know even when I was a student that was one of the most annoying questions. I hated losing valuable class time to go over what already happened. As a teacher I cannot even imagine getting that question several times a day! Once again I can just direct them to the blog.

Response to Survey Monkey

kpitchford — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 21:35:24 +0000

I believe that I will be able to implement a site like Survey Monkey into my future classroom to be beneficial to not only me but my students as well. Not only is it free, but it can provide me with valuable information. First of all, it would be an easy and efficient way to give a pre-test on a subject because it does not matter who gets the answers right or wrong. It would be time saving in that respect as well so I don’t have to grade pre-tests. It is also another way to “go green”. Also, I could use it as a survey site about me and my own personal teaching style, giving the students the opportunity to respond anonymously without the possibility of me recognizing their handwriting. I know that sometimes I was not completely honest when I would fill out those forms because I have very distinctive handwriting. Although I have never created a survey before with Survey Monkey, I have used the site in the past to assist my peers for various classes where they had to collect data. Overall I think the free aspect of the site is wonderful but it is definitely not something that I would pay for. Look at the survey I created! Just for fun on the first day of class.

Kpitchford's Blog

Web 2.0

Response to Survey Monkey