Week 12 Exit Slip

Today I learned how students see learning as changing. Students wanted it to be social-based, which I believe will be beneficial because I enjoy incorporating social networking into my education. I realized the meaning of un-tethered learning – how we can learn everywhere and all the time – because we have so much technological access. Learning is also digitally rich because of this. I have realized how technology is shaping education more and more each week, but hadn’t thought about how kids viewed it.

I cannot believe how communicating with technologies has grown so rapidly! The video we watched in class surprised me with how big this is becoming. I am also now thinking more about how I am going to establish rules and guidelines for internet chat safety with my students. I would likely use EPals so that my students can have a great way to message each other and have discussions. I believe that these would be great to encourage shy students to socialize and respond more than they normally would. I also did not realize 6 people could speak at once on Skype. This would be great for my students who had internet access at home in order to complete projects when they are unable to meet physically. I also had never thought about using AIM as a game. I think it was enjoyable and students would like it. I also realized that using a fast-paced video keeps people engaged. Also, I have never thought about how podcasts have advantages because the user can stop/start it, etc. I think that this would make lectures more effective for students. However, students would not be able to ask questions. A discussion board could be added to help this problem.

I think that students need to learn about how to use technology, but not to the detriment of their health. I did not realize that virtual school enrollment was increasing so much. I feel that this could be negative because it makes school less personal, yet it could be positive because it does not have a set pace and can be focused on the individual student rather than the class. Last, I am shocked to hear about how video games control some people’s lives. I will encourage other things besides video games such as playing sports. Students need to know this is not reality.

As far as cool tools go, Woome.com is a site that I hope my students do not know about. It could be dangerous! It is another reason why they need to learn about internet safety. However, I think Ning.com would be fun for students to discuss their interests! We always talk about how kids will enjoy school more if they are interested, so I think they could benefit from this site. Additionally, DrawAnywhere.com seems great because it is online and free!