Course Reflection

In undertaking the Web 2.0 course, I had no expectations and minimal technology experience. However, the format of the course was user friendly and it was of great assistance to be able to complete the course with colleagues. These colleagues were invaluable when it came to reflecting on, and evaluating each of the applications.

I appreciate the many possibilities the ‘Web’ now allows students, it makes available access to a much wider field of knowledge than ever before and it is ‘time’ friendly.
While technology will never replace the need for effective teachers to promote enquiry, curiosity and a love of learning, it does meet the needs of a student body who will emerge from the cocoon of a closed environment into the technological reality of todays world. Which is the basis of our work, preparing our students for the future.

Of all the programs covered in this course, I found the use of Glogster to be the most applicable for a primary classroom. Wikis and blogs will enable students to work together and share their learning experience, some students were already familiar with their use so it is reassuring to know I can now add to their understanding (or keep abreast with them) in these areas. Students are already familiar with pod, vods and their use in the classroom, but it was useful to explore the full potential of these tools.

As well as informing me of the educational potential and the resources available to me through this technology, I feel I have had the opportunity to ‘upskill’ my knowledge and understanding in this area and can better meet the needs of my students.

While I will endeavour to implement most of this learning into the classroom I do feel there needs to be an awareness of the potential for mismanagement if some activities are not carefully monitored. Social Network sites are illegal for children under the age of 13 and this must be noted and respected.