Class 8 Book reading

Chapter 7

This chapter challenged and built on my knowledge about online communication. Asynchronous communication levels the playing field for those who prefer to give a thoughtful answer. Students can all contribute to a discussion. Responses can be examined and weighed over time before a reaction is generated. Classes can post a discussion for both Internet bases courses and local ones. I seems like the Internet really has the power to level the playing field in this way. The Internet has already leveled the playing field in news, and knowledge. I am actively producing PodCasts and I will simply say that I agree with the book and see this as a growing trend in education. Video conferencing seems like it would have to be a sometimes thing. I see it as a great tool, especially if you could really gain access to great minds.

Classroom application: I think that students will see message boards and blogs as another boring written assignment and an obligation. I suppose, like anything, you can make it interesting. I like stuff that really stretches kids. Making a PodCast or a VodCast will stretch a kid and motivate them. I think that if we can capture a students' imagination then we can capture a student. My point is this: we need to provide motivation with imaginative and creative activities connected with communication, because lets face it. Students struggle already to communicate and especially with adults and none-friend-peers.