Technological tools from emails and discussion boards to Wikis and blogs. Corporations have incorporated the use of emails for quite some time now, and it is important that students understand a professional use of tools such as emails.
I have introduced emails to my students in different classes so that they may communicate with me and other students. We have established google accounts that serve for email purposes as well as blogs and instant messaging. My students are always interested in talking to their classmates for one thing or another. I allow my students on occasion to use instant messaging tools during practice work. I am constantly monitoring the instant messages so that my students stay on task, but because I am not always the expert on a given subject; I allow them to teach each other. Instant messaging allows students to assist each other with little disturbance to the class.
I have just recently begun using blogs. It is a motivational tool in helping to improve literacy and create a high level of classroom interaction. Students are motivated by the topic as it is relevant to their environment, and they are interested in reading how others feel. Ground rules such as appropriate language, respecting others’ ideas, and monitoring tone of response were discussed prior to the initial post.
Enhancing student interaction in an online environment is important to the effectiveness of my practice. My students expect to learn something different in my class as it relates to the computer, and I try to meet their expectations. Using more collaborative tools such as social media is a venture I would like to undertake. What are some advantages and disadvantages of incorporating social media in the educational field?
Wanda, I enjoyed reading your post. What devices do the students use for instant messaging? How would you handle a situation if a new student arrived in class and did not have the resources to be part of the wireless conversation? What specific technological tools are you sharing to enhance student learners in the area of collaboration and communication? Your powerpoint does contain some very helpful strategies.
ReplyDeleteGreat post Wanda. Do you assign any homework when it comes to technology? What do you do when a student doesn't have the technology needed at home to complete postings?
ReplyDeleteLinda, I don't assign any homework because most of my students do not have computers at home. I have lab hours before and after school. The library is also open before and afters school. I make sure that the work assigned can be done during the class time.
ReplyDeleteI agree. It would be difficult to assign homework. How many of your students take advantage of the after school library hours?
ReplyDeleteI am the Senior Project Coordinator, and my students must successfully complete the course to graduate. In the beginning, they do not give this class the attention it needs, but by Christmas break; they finally wake up and understand its importance. They utilize my lab hours and the library lab hours more second semester than the first. Any suggestions on getting them “jump started” sooner?
ReplyDeleteWanda