Web 2.0: Today's Technologies, Tomorrow's Learning

In the article Web 2.0: Today's Technologies, Tomorrow's Learning by Jason Haas and Jennifer Groff, the issue of using new technologies such as social networking sites and online games in the classroom. Teachers usually shy away from these new technologies because they are thought to be distracting and superfluous, however the authors of Today's Technologies, Tomorrow's Learning prove that these games and social networking sites can be very helpful in classes. For instance, classroom teachers have had problems in the past simulating real world situations such as exploring the body's circulation system, or exploring the life of a star. But with the help of technology and online games, we are able to demonstrate things like the body's circulation system with ease. This allows students to have a more applicable understanding of the information they are reading about or being lectured on, but in a still controlled environment.

As with all new teaching technologies, there have been quite a few problems and "what-if"s brought up when discussing the issue of implementing new games and social networking sites in the classroom. Teachers not knowing the technology, unforeseeable circumstances such as network failures, and students going farther than anticipated with technology are all issues which have frightened teachers away from using these technologies. The authors of the article, however, have explained that not only are these temporary roadblocks avoidable and fixable, but they are also worth the  benefits of using these technological advances in the classroom. Additionally, they provide teachers with ideas on how to avoid these potential problems. They advise teachers to explore, partner with a colleague, and find additional supports.

I think the use of games and social networking sites is a very unique and beneficial way to incorporate technology in the classroom. For example, the use of Facebook in class is usually punished and frowned upon, however I believe that teachers can incorporate Facebook -- with boundaries and limitations, of course -- to create a strong classroom bond and help facilitate collaboration after school hours. Unfortunately, it is much more likely that a student will have access to Facebook after school than the ability to go to a partner's house. This will allow students to work on group projects more easily. The point of this article is to explain to teachers why it is important to embrace all aspects of technology, which I think is important in this day and age.

Haas, Jason, and Jeniffer Groff. "Web 2.0: Toda'ys Technologies, Tomorrow's Learning." Learning & Leading with Technology September/October 2008. 12-15. International Society for Technology in Education. Web. 4 Oct 2011. <http://www.eric.ed.gov/ERICWebPortal/contentdelivery/servlet/ERICServlet?accno=EJ810839>.