Groff, J, & Haas, J. (2008). Web 2.0: today's technology, tomorrow's learning. Leading and Learning, 36(2), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/Content/NavigationMenu/Publications/LL/LLIssues/Volume3620082009/SeptemberOctoberNo2/L_L_September_October_2008.htm
This article expresses the importance of today's technologies to better tomorrows learning. A social bookmarking sites such as facebook offers the opportunity for people to meet new people and join various groups that pertains to their interests. Second life is a simulation that enables people to explore new ideas and try new things that they otherwise wouldn't have been able to in real world. Other simulations are digital games and social networking allows teachers to welcome new challenges and reshape the classroom for the digital age. Educators shouldn't look at technology as a distraction, but as a potential benefit to help students make sense of their "digital" world. It is important to acknowledge the world wide movement attempting to bridge the gap between traditional scholastic culture and the new culture of the 21st century.
This is a new frontier that educators, researchers and designers are beginning to explore the world of social networking. This tool will create strong and collaborative communication. Networking tools like Ming can create a private and safe communication forum for your class. They can use it for class assignments, discussions and communication with peers and parents. This digital world can be a real hands on learning experience relating classroom content to real life experience in a safe environment. Games can be played that are curriculum based and crafted in ways to engage students in critical thinking and problem solving. Learning in this way may not even seem like learning to the students. By using these new tools the teacher and the students become partners in learning. It enables the students to learn life skills, and communicate with other students worldwide.
What other tools can be incorporated in virtual communication?
There are a number of sites that allow colloborative communication such as twitter, blog as well as interactive games. These tools allow students to facilitate and think criticaly, in a virtual world.
What are some strategies for success?
With a greater use of technology incorporated in classrooms, there are some pointers to ensure a smooth transition from textbook to a computer based learning. The important thing to remember when encouraging your students to participate in any online simulations to engage with them. The interaction and exploration together will ensure that learning and experienceing in a modern era.
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