Well after reading my blog comments, it looks like I've stirred the puddin' with some of you who have embraced the Web 2.0 tools as part of your daily lives and curriculum. I know I know... it's a requirement that we integrate technology into our teaching... and I know that it's a part of our daily lives. I'm still holding reservations... always will. I'm conservative & cautious, so hear me out:
- The benefits to using Web 2.0 tools are enormous. Their goal is to enhance learning for both adults and kids. No question. Research has proven that enhancements can make deeper connections with adults & students due to our learning styles. I get that.
- Web 2.0 tools also bring new definitions to common problems that educators face: bullying, school violence, professionalism vs. academic freedom (Acceptable Use Policies with Social Media, such as Twitter, FB, YouTube, etc.), and also the abuse of Web 2.0 tools by educators and / or students. A whole new can of worms has been opened; Pandora's box has become much more complex to deal with for educators.
I want you all to think about these 2 points and take them into consideration. That's the whole crux of my position with Web 2.0 tools and their usage. I'm not here to condone their use. I actually
support their use. They are another tool in our toolbox of expertise. At the same time, we've all seen the good, the bad, & the ugly with respect to technology, and Web 2.0 tools. I encourage their use, but with
caution. Your online identity can be compromised, hacked, whatever you want to call it. We are not exceptions... it's not a question of if, it's a question of when...
Enjoy the fruits of your labor, but be careful with how you handle it!
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