Students of today will graduate into a work place that is highly competent with a wide range of skills. Therefore, the more opportunities and exposure they are afforded, the higher their chances of thriving in a work environment that requires a much richer set of skills.
I look forward to learning about Quiz and Activities Generators (I’m particularly looking forward to using the Google Art Project); and Content Management Systems & Learning Spaces.
One way that Web 2.0 has changed my professional practice is being able to access my documents and materials without physically dragging my laptop and trolley full of papers and binders. The ability to access my teaching materials, student work and data online from any device is priceless.One way that I would love to use new tools to engage digital learners is by taking them beyond the physical classroom space and provide learning opportunities that are not only concrete and authentic but also allows them to get out of their bubble and interact with learning communities around the globe.
- My initial thoughts on Web 2.0 is that it is overwhelming simply because there’s a ton of tools and resources available, making it difficult to narrow down choices. However, the collaborative opportunities it provides by linking people in 21st Century teaching and Learning is exciting and promising when utilized effectively. The most intriguing information is that “some educators have added other qualifications for being considered Web 2.0… the tools must be free, and open source.” (Scrum & Solomon, p. 3). Therefore, it promotes accessibility for students regardless of their socio-economic status.
- Web 2.0 tools can support students with diverse learning needs when “teachers and students are able to use specific kinds of tools that fit students’ personal learning styles” (Schrum & Solomon, p.20). By utilizing features that address a wide range of learner needs, interests and learning styles in a manner that is seamless, while reinforcing critical thinking skills and strategies, Web 2.0 will provide more supports and opportunities for 21st century learners to maximize their academic potential.
According to http://edtechteacher.org/assessment “rather than grade the end product, educators must focus on the process -- research, writing, image selection, etc. This allows teachers to focus on learning throughout the whole project rather than the flashy, finished product.” Therefore, every step of grading student blogs should be taken into consideration by the teacher.Website
This website http://www.teachandlearn.ca/blog/2009/02/20/thoughts-on-assessment/ finds that “Assessment… can become more collaborative because the teacher and the student have opportunities to discuss/co-construct the task itself, the criteria, the process of learning.” It is imperative that teachers actively participate in the process and consider an interactive grading approach that will explore the learner’s perspective and possibly learn from the learner.
When evaluating student blog posts, I would consider as a whole, the thought process and how the student arrived at his or her position. In evaluating student comments, I would also like to acknowledge comments when I agree. If I disagree, I would be curious and ask further questions as to how the student felt justified in his or her comments so that I can explore a perspective that may be new to me but valid in its own regard. This allows my role to be ongoing and collaborative with an opportunity for me to continually learn from my students, as they learn from me.
RUBRIC
References
http://edtechteacher.org/assessment/. Assessing Student Learning
Glogowski, C. (2009). Blog of Proximal development: Thoughts on Assessment. http://www.teachandlearn.ca/blog/2009/02/20/thoughts-on-assessment/
Schrum & Solomon (2014). Web 2.0 How-To for Educators.