Facebook

This week in class we learned focused on discussing Facebook. I read an article discussing student and teacher privacy with regards to facebook. Also, I had the opportunity to explore many of the applications associated with Facebook. Facebook is a wonderful tool for reconnecting with friends and family. However, it can also be beneficial in education. There are many applications that teachers and students can use to extend the classroom educational experience outside of the classroom.

Privacy is a huge issue when it comes to social media. I am a strong believer that teachers need to be EXTREMELY careful and cautious with everything they post online. Even if they have private settings there are ways for others to view this information or see the images they post. Therefore only post information online that you are comfortable with everyone viewing!

Exploring Wiki's

During these past two weeks I have spent an extensive amount of time researching and exploring various wikis. I also have now created a new wiki using PBWorks. My Wiki will be used for a project in my classroom. In the next few weeks I will be developing a project that my students will complete by using my wiki.

In the past I have created a wiki using WikiSpaces. However, the wiki I created was basically a classroom webpage. I did not allow students or other individuals edit or change the site. I have now been exposed to the benefits of a collaborative wiki where students or other teachers can contribute information on the wiki. I am excited to see how this wiki will benefit students in my classroom this year!

I also have learned about three different types of wiki. Wikis can be created for a variety of collaborative projects within three main categories. Those categories are knowledge construction, critical thinking, and contextual application. All three of these categories have their benefits and can be useful in the classroom.

I am excited to spend next week focusing on social networking and learning more about the benefits of Facebook!