I have been thinking lately about my teaching practice and the steps I need to do to become a better educator? In this process I thought it would be useful to question the use of the web 2.0 as an indispensable instructional resource. Specifically, what purpose is the web 2.0 serving in my lessons?
I believe that, at times, my use of web tools to enhance the educational experiences of my students has merely covered up poor instruction. Although a cool looking website with a wiki or blog may appease parents, schools, and motivate students - what is the purpose of its use? If I am to grow as an educator, I need to question the process of my teaching, the learning activities I chart for my students; I must have a clear pedagogy and approach that is founded on something other than the "oh that is cool" factor. Computers and technology do not teach... they are just instructional tools for use by the teacher.
So what am I saying? I believe that the first step to becoming a good teacher is to enter the instructional design process unplugged; no phones, pda's, laptops, projectors, etc... If it needs to be powered, do not use it! Ironically, Knowing how to teach and motivate in an "unplugged" learning environment may provide me with a better understanding of how to better integrate technology.
A Google search for the "The Greatest Educators Ever" resulted in a book by Frank Flanagan. He lists 18 educators spanning history as we know it; none of them used the web 2.0.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
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2 comments:
I agree that we as teachers need to have a strong philosophy when it comes to teaching and to know who we are as teachers. I myself am very learner-centered in my approach. Understanding their responsibilities to others, children can work independently to solve educational and relationship problems. In my classroom, students experience a pedagogic approach, which encourages inquiry, enhances interest in subject matter, and teaches responsibility for the school environment.
That being said, I also am a technology advocate. I have piloted and use any technology I can in my classroom and I would like to continue to do so. I don't think that using technology and the web takes away from my philosophy or the way I instruct my students. It just gives me an additional way to help my students learn and expand their horizons outside of our 4 walls.
If we know who we are as teachers, then I believe we and our students can benefit from technology and the web.
What if one of your students needs to collaborate with another person/company and doesn't have the skills necessary to do that b/c we haven't taught him/her those technology skills in school?
Just a thought.....
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