Journal #2

Journal #2
Breathing Fire Into Web 2.0
Justin Hardman and David Carpenter wrote this article about Dragon Net. This idea of “breathing fire” into the social networking of schools is a great way to enhance classroom management. The classroom management system is fully integrated with the curriculum. This is an individualized program for teachers that promote communication and collaboration for themselves and their students. These online goodies include whatever the teacher wants available to their students, online resources, class projects, and calendars etcetera. This is a beneficial tool and serves as an online portfolio that supports student and teacher reflection. In the world we live in we rely so heavily on being “online” or using the Internet and I feel this Dragon Net is a great tool to see we are moving in the right direction.

Question #1 Do we rely too heavily on online resources in the classroom?

Answer: Yes and no. I think it is important for students to effectively use the Internet, but this needs to be done professionally. Many Internet sites are not completely true and people can publish false statements. This is something to be weary of so students can find legitimate resources rather than one-sided arguments. I also believe students need to be taught how to find reputable resource sites rather than allow them to fail on their own. Once learned this can be used as a great tool for their future.

Question #2 By emphasizing online access and assignments does this discriminate against students without Internet access?

Answer: Yes! I think that online assignments are good, however limits some students. We live in an online world, but still need to remember that not everyone has caught up to this huge emphasis of doing things online. Not all homes are equipped with Internet access and this would inhibit certain students. Ultimately online assignments are good, but teachers need to allow access to students who may not have online access at home. For instance the school computer lab or library.