We are indeed two weeks into this class and already have tossed around web 2.0 tools that I have and haven't heard of. Skype, Jing, Animoto, Google Reader, to name just a few. This course is roughly 7 weeks long and to think that there is so much more out there is that enough time? My hope is to learn as many tools available and my fear is that there is not enough time or money.
While I am excited to learn all I can, I don't want to learn all that is available, and not learn how to use it. That is what leads me to a possible project for our class. If we all pick one tool that we can explore, learn, and create a artifact for; we could then create a "How-To" video/pod cast of it. Just an Idea.
Another fear for me with these tools is money. Don't get me wrong most of the sites are free or have educator discounts, but seem to have restrictions. To get the most of it, it seems as though I or my district would have to pay for it... For example Kim introduced me to the tool Elluminate. It allows for multi-people conferencing with additional features I am sure how to use (good project tool :). There is a free version but only allows 3 people to conference. Great tool, but has a cost associated to it.
Overall I am excited and ready to learn what Web 2.0 has to offer and how I can use to enhance learning and engage my students!
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Mike,
ReplyDeleteI also agree with your concerns. However, to continue stirring the pot, my other concern is access. In our school, access to sites is locked down like Fort Knox (if I spelled that wrong I'm sorry). Therefore, half of my frustration is that I learn great new tools and ideas in my graduate classes and then when I try to use them in school, I'm denied access. What's an educator to do?
Both are valid concerns. First, Mike, your comment about how to use these tools in your classroom. My suggestion is to start small. For example: Have you thought of allowing your students to use your jing account to create mini lessons on different math problems and their solutions. They can then use the mini lessons, link them into the class moodle and use them as tutorials. What fun it is to show off to their classmates! They won't even think that they are learning anything! Next, to Marg299, I feel your pain on the blocked sites problem. I think I would go to your administrator, show them the tool you would like to use, and explain the educational benefits to your students. One baby step at a time. It is tough to move mountains! :)
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