Web+2.0+-+Chapter+4

Web 2.0 Chapter 4 - new tools in schools

Summary

The authors move beyond discussing their philosophy for change, to providing concrete examples of collaborative project-based learning. Interestingly, they present their examples using three different methods. First they discuss schools at each level of learning, then the specific tools such as wikis, blogs etc., they then provide content area examples. So, however the reader wants to think about the topic, they should be able to find a way into the subject :-)

Reading the "print" chapter in this book was only the beginning of reading, as I quickly became caught up in following links and looking at all the wonderful examples of rich practice. Two teachers that I'd highlight, from the many profiled, are [|Cheryl Oakes], and [|Bob Sprankle,] both working in Wells, Maine. I especially like a phrase Cheryl quotes from one of her editors - "what was the hype about a particular technology, and what was the hope". In other words, how will this change things for our students and their learning.

Comment

As Karen noted in her response to Chapter 3, our kids are already using the technology for entertainment. We have to provide lessons for learning that can compete with what they're already using. Bridget points out that Chapter 2 discusses "connectivism" and that's the trick - how do we get kids to __not only__ learn to read and calculate, but really explore the meaning of their own experiences in the school setting. For my teaching, change means working hard to improve the questions that are being asked (of students). It also involves shifting my definition of publishing from a finished product in its best edited form to a presentation of info, open for discussion that welcomes comment and collaboration from others. (Debbie)