Journal #2

Groff & Haas, J (2008).WEB 2.0 Today's Technologies, Tomorrow's Learning . Learning & Leading. Sept/Oct 2008, 12-15.

The computer has tremendous potential to be a teaching and learning tool. The younger generation (e.g. 18 years and younger) is very adept at using the computer for fun and games as for Social Networking , Simulations and Digital Games. Consequently, the critical question for Educators is “How can I tap into this interest and apply it to teaching and learning?” A logical step is for the Educator to explore these computer applications, learn how to use them and devise connections between the student’s interest and academic education.
Through the availability of computer applications like NING, Starlogo TNG, Explore Science and games like Diplomacy and in conjunction with knowledgeable colleagues Educators can learn to connect with their students on their level . Per Fitzgerald and Scheintaub “..students gain deeper conceptual knowledge, and they understand the content better.” An Educator would bring a “highly engaging “ technology which would be student-friendly. Scheintaub stated “ by bringing school into the modern era ,they like it and relate to it.”
The computer offer’s both pro’s and con’s . With proper “netiquette” there can be no greater learning tool but by abusing time with the computer, like the television, it can be a time waster and detriment to actual learning.

1. How can I tap into students computer interests and apply it to teaching and learning?
One of the first questions an educator might ask of a student is “ What do you use the computer for?” By discovering the students interests an educator can then begin learning the applications and seek out advice from computer resource personnel to begin to learn possible applications. An Educator can utilize what is already available and working for other educators.

2. What computer application could easily be used now?
One of the less complicated application could be Windows Power Point. An Educator could provide notes and additional examples and subject support on a Power Point presentation placed on a blog or school website accessible by students. A Frequent Question and Answers category could be setup so students could ask questions but other students could answer the questions for extra credit.

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