Microblogging; what a concept. We have so many ways to communicate that it can be overstimulating but for education it is great. So-o-o-0 many ways to get students involved in the research process; communicating globally, locally and instantly is no longer a concept it is reality. It is possible to reach the masses as well as specific interest groups through a variety of venues; microblogging is the new and exciting communication system. Twittering, facebook, Blogs, and of course, the the old email is just a few of the modes of communication. Within each of these systems are specific stategies that students can utilize to explore, collect or send information to the appropriate person or destination. I have had a facebook account for a year and a half and though I see the advantages of this communication system for students; it is not my personal favorite. Though it is not my personal favorite the advantages outweigh my bias especially when it is related to reaching a specific audience regarding pertinent information. Students love it because they can communicate instantly with friends and get information out to such a large population whether it is a class reunion, fieldtrip, or what's happening in their lives at the moment much like TWITTER. The education value is unlimited; I can guide students to Gradzilla, College Planner, Skool Pool and a host of other resources that will help in collecting information regarding the colleges of their choice from students that are actually attending those colleges. Facebook can also provide informatikon regarding the organizations that your friends are member of provides the opportunity for you to donate or join. I sign up on the Twitter site and attempted to get info from other counselors regarding Postsecondary counseling and how to reach the masses. I will continue to search for answers, ideas, opinions and resources via twitter or blogging. Back channeling is a wonderful concept that I believe will help many students; to be able send electronic note to your teacher or a faciliator of a conference without feeling that all the attention is on you especially for those really smart shy students who are afraid to ask questions in front of the class or even those students that may not be able to attend class on a specific day, channeling is great. Back channeling would have been one of my most frequent choice of communication in high schoool and college.
2 comments:
I like the way you include a visual image for most of your postings. Simple. Visually effective. As for iPhones or other tech devices in the classroom.... teachers will have to monitor like crazy to make sure students are 'where' they are supposed to be on their devices, or the tech world will need to create something for the teacher to take a quick glance and tell what apps are in play....
I really liked the back channeling. Gonna have to see how it works with the elem. kids.
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