As teachers to "Digital Natives" (Prensky 20010), we must understand how the specific technology is used by the students. Also we must be aware that not all students have had the same access to technology as others and not "Collapse all young people into one class" (Rosen, 2008). This is true especially with the idea of UDL (universal design learners); since all students learn different, it only makes sense that they all have had different experiences with technology.
Web 2.0 fits into UDL for the simple fact that it offers information from all different kinds of learners. Since the social sharing is a huge part of Web 2.0, students can share information in a way that makes sense to the same kind of learner. Collaboration is a valuable tool to use with the students of the digital age, especially with those students who find it easier to communicate through technology A disadvantage to using this technology is the overwhelming amount of information. When using this technology you must teach your students skills to search for the good information and ignore the rest.
The students are not the only ones who can benefit from Web 2.0. Teachers can access methods and strategies for teaching across the board.
The "Today Show" clip was interesting because the hosts didn't even know what the internet was and what it would become. They only knew it as WEB 1.0.They had no idea how it would change the workplace or schools and colleges. That is a thought we must always be aware of: technology is always changing and we must be aware of the technology the "natives" are using and how we can utilize it as a teaching tool.
David, you bring up a few great points. The internet does offer a lot of information, of which not all is credible. Web 2.0 tools are also a great resource for teachers to learn and use information they gain through these means with their students.
ReplyDeleteSo glad that you pointed out the idea that many students may not have had the same tech experiences. My daughter's third word was iPad-- and I have to remember that THAT isn't all that normal!
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you pointed out that although the collaborative aspects of a Web 2.0 world are great they can also provide an avalanche of information. I'd like you to spend some time also talking about students with disabilities and how that impact them as well.
I agree with you in that many students do not have the same experiences with the Web. Because of this, we have to be careful not to put every student on the same level, and have the same expectations!
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