Thoughts and Reflection
As the class comes to an end, I recall some of the things that have been discussed this semester. We have spent a great amount of time working with various tools used to enhance not only distance education but regular classroom instruction as well. I have learned to view particular websites as more than mere ways to connect with friends. Take for example, the use of social networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook. I’m guilty of being a Facebook addict because I enjoy staying in touch with family and friends; but I had failed to consider the educational implications of such sites. Sites such as these can be used to connect students from across the world in an inexpensive and convenient way. Students can become much more involved when they are communicating on this level.
The same goes for resources such as YouTube. YouTube serves as a great way to edit and upload videos for students to access. I think it would also be a great way for students to engage in an enriching, technology project where they are able to create and upload their own videos. As teachers we are supposed to find a mean and various mediums in which students learn best; and with all that’s available in the world of technology the resources are limitless. I think some of the most important things that I have learned this semester is that we shouldn’t under-estimate the educational value of some of the everyday, technological resources available to us.
