Technology IntegrationBlogs, Wikis &

Social Networking

Wilkes University – Emerging TechnologiesCathy W. Dowd

Fall 2009

Examples of Web-BasedLessons & Projects

Interpersonal Exchanges

Information Collection and Analysis

Problem Solving

Examples of LessonsElectronic Pen Pals – http://www.epals.com; http://www.micglobe.org/program_icc/index.php#video

Electronic Mentoring – www.telementor.org; http://quest.arc.nasa.gov/sso/chats

Electronic (virtual) Field Trips – http://www.tramlines.org/; www.accessexcellence.org/RC/virtual.html

Electronic Publishing – www.childrens-express.org; http://www.ncsu.edu/midlink/; http://voicethread.com

Group Product Development – www.ciese.org/collabprojs.html

Problem-based Learning - www.globe.gov; http://pathfinderscience.net/; www.projectpioneer.com/mars

Social Action Projects – www.learn.org; www.earthdaybags.org http://www.project312.org/index.asp

Sites with CollectionsAnnenberg Channel

Camp Silos

Center for Improved Engineering and Science Education (CIESE)

Co-Nect teleprojects

Consumer Jungle

Exploration: The Museum of Science, Art, and Human Perception

Eyes on Art Lessons

The Franklin Institute Online

The Global Schoolhouse

GoNorth! Adventure Learning Series

Knowledge Network Explorer

National Geographic Xpeditions

Teacher’s Desk Lesson Plans

Tramline’s Virtual Field Trips

Questions to Ask?

What is the curriculum-related purpose of the activity?

Does the Internet enhance the activity?

How will students use online resources (as opposed to just locating them)?

Do students have the necessary information analysis/information synthesis skills, or am I including those in the instruction?

Do I have the necessary time and support for the activity?

Blogs & Wikis

Web Authoring Tool

Blogs are Internet-based journals

Blogs are hyperactive

Blogs are interactive

Blogs are not just about education

Web Authoring Tool

Wikis encourage collaborative learning and information sharing

They increase student engagement and participation

Wikis facilitate communication between teachers and parents /guardians

Social Networking

Ning – create your own social network http://www.ning.com/

Elgg – create your own social environment http://elgg.org/

MySpace – not a good reputation http://www.myspace.com/

Facebook – more college-level based http://www.facebook.com/

http://edublogawards.com/and-the-2008-winners-are/http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,208175,00.htmlhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_social_networking_websites