Next StepsNow that you have had a chance to explore our 18 Things you may be wondering “now what?” It is easy to feel overwhelmed by the amount of information there is on the topics of Web 2.0 and technology for learning. Remember you don't need to know everything! One of the most important things to remember as you take your next steps into the world of Web 2.0 is that technology is a tool for learning, not a learning outcome. Keep in mind the learning you want to do then find the technology tool that will help you accomplish that learning. Here are a few suggestions to help you get going if you are unsure where to start. If you are a seasoned technology user and use technology regularly to support learning we hope you will find a few new ideas or friendly reminders to encourage you along your way. |
1. Try it out for yourself. Think about something you would like to do and choose a Web 2.0 tool to help you do it. Try 2 or 3 of the tools highlighted in the modules. Remember that the learning or task, not the tool, should be the focus.
2. Try it out with your students. Think about something you would like your students to learn. Which tools could assist them in their learning? Choose 1 or 2 and try them with your class or with a small group of students.
3. Don't be afraid to make a mistake. Develop a learning environment where failure is a positive part of the learning process and where everyone works to support one another. When the technology doesn't work come together to think of a creative solution to overcome the problem, shrug your collective shoulders and discuss what you learned today, or show resilience by coming back to it at a different time.
"Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new.” – Albert Einstein
4. Share the spotlight. You don't need to be the expert. Allow students to show their expertise and be teachers to others. Provide opportunities for them to share their knowledge with the whole class or with small groups. Let them lead.
5. Be a digital citizen and role model. Continue to learn yourself. Look for other resources on Web 2.0 tools and learning.
Learn It In 5 is another great site to do more exploring. Find support. Develop a PLN by reaching out to other educators online.
Here are 18 suggestions to get you started:
2. Try it out with your students. Think about something you would like your students to learn. Which tools could assist them in their learning? Choose 1 or 2 and try them with your class or with a small group of students.
3. Don't be afraid to make a mistake. Develop a learning environment where failure is a positive part of the learning process and where everyone works to support one another. When the technology doesn't work come together to think of a creative solution to overcome the problem, shrug your collective shoulders and discuss what you learned today, or show resilience by coming back to it at a different time.
"Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new.” – Albert Einstein
4. Share the spotlight. You don't need to be the expert. Allow students to show their expertise and be teachers to others. Provide opportunities for them to share their knowledge with the whole class or with small groups. Let them lead.
5. Be a digital citizen and role model. Continue to learn yourself. Look for other resources on Web 2.0 tools and learning.
Learn It In 5 is another great site to do more exploring. Find support. Develop a PLN by reaching out to other educators online.
Here are 18 suggestions to get you started:
Blogs to follow:
We Are Teachers Langwitches Cool Cat Teacher Blog Larry Ferlazzo's Websites of the Day The Unquiet Librarian Lisa Nielsen: The Innovative Educator Driving Me To Think Culture of Yes Two Writing Teachers Neverending Search The Adventures of Library Girl Technology Enhanced Learning Blog Venspired The Daring Librarian Getting Smart Teach Thought Edudemic Free Technology for Teacher |
Follow on Twitter:
@buffyhamilton @edutopia @naomiharm @shannonmmiller @gcouros @willrich45 @elissamalespina @kathycassidy @shareski @TED_ED @Angela_Watson @isteconnects @adriennegear @donalynbooks @SirKenRobinson @tonyvincent @iAppleLearner @E_Sheninger |
6. Celebrate and share your learning. Contribute to Twitter feeds, start a blog, or develop your own website using Weebly, Wix, or Google Sites. Showcase your professional learning and the learning of your students. Share digital projects online or at an assembly.
7. Reflect on where you have been and where you would like to go next. What was successful? What wasn’t successful? What did you learn? What do you need/want to learn next?
7. Reflect on where you have been and where you would like to go next. What was successful? What wasn’t successful? What did you learn? What do you need/want to learn next?
“Commit yourself to lifelong learning. The most valuable asset you’ll ever have is your mind
and what you put into it.” ~ Brian Tracy
and what you put into it.” ~ Brian Tracy
Enjoy the learning journey!
Photo Reference:
Ferriter, B. (2013). Technology is a Tool [Online image]. Retrieved November 13, 2014 from
http://www.flickr.com/photos/plugusin/9223386478/in/set-72157625087347140
Web 2.0 CommunicatorsCollaboratorsCreatorsCurators by Laura, Rachel, Alexa, Kelsi, Asiye, Megan is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License