The Web 2.0 world is incredible. The amazing array of resources for social communication is mind-boggling. But is it relevant to education in a tertiary setting? I think that wikis, blogs, etc. can be used as educational tools. They allow for dissemination of education in an easier and quicker manner (eg. use of global text messaging for large classes, in place of individual emails). Lecturers can include internet material in lectures/tutorials/online discussions. Podcasts can be used to disseminate important points, or whole lectures. Engaging in different technologies can maintain the interest of the students.
For me, the challenge of Web 2.0 technologies is great. I have a huge amount of learning to do if I want to make use of these technologies. I can see that some students will need similar instruction, prior to using the technologies,and so I will have to know how to teach this technology as well. The most important point, however, is that the students will need to be sure that the technology is being used for a purpose, and not just because it's there. They will need to see that the technology can promote collaboration, writing skills, reflective thinking, etc. Without knowing this, the students may just view the technology as yet another assessment to get through, and deep learning will not be encouraged.
Sheena, I agree. Using ICT in any of our teaching needs to have a purpose apart from just wanting to use it for the sake of it. From the learning we have done this week, I think discussion boards as part of a class forum may be the most applicable to what I teach. The challenge is enormous but I can see teaching evolving to make increased use of Web 2.0 and possibly 3.0 technology.
ReplyDeleteSheena I so agree with what you are saying. There are some incredible tools to use with the emergence of Web 2.0 technologies - my initial reaction to 'what is out there' is complete overwhelm! I actually enjoy face to face contact and working in groups; these are where my skills really sit; so to begin to take on Web 2.0 technologies I am going to have to gain confidence, knowledge, and above all, believe that whatever technology I use is more beneficial than the face to face. I'm sure it is not an impossible proposition!
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