Two weeks ago we looked at Scootle. I have looked at this before but could only go so far before I had to subscribe. It has fabulous content - great for classroom teachers. The issue of cost, access, passwords etc need to be further explored but it is a great teaching tool.
We also looked at Social Networking sites such as facebook. I do not have my own facebook page but my sons do and I have navigated around their pages to know something about it. I would be very concerned about using Facebook in schools. I am aware that one is meant to be 13 years old before you can have a facebook page but I know that students as young as 8 in our school have a facebook page. Already Facebook has caused problems in the primary school with various inappropriate posts and bullying issues. Where does the line end before an issue is home related and not school related?
We also looked at other Social Networks that encourage professional, social and learning communities through the use of Wikis. (Some of the posts on some Wikis are unbelievable.... some people must have nothing better to do than to share their life story!) I was also surprised at some sights that are available, such as Virtual Worlds!!! There is so much "out there". I'm blown away.
Hi Sue
ReplyDeleteI just realised we have the same background, shared good taste no doubt. I also enjoyed the last Modules, there are definate uses in the classroom. See you tomorrow for the final session.