Webquest

I have begun to develop a web quest for the first time. I like the idea of sending students to the Internet and hope they will be able to use it properly and learn something outside of the classroom. I also think it can be an effective tool because not only are they going to hopefully pick up something about the content assigned, but may also learn some things about the Internet as well. The biggest problem I have encountered up to this point is the ability to decide exactly what students will do. I have learned very quickly that not everything can be converted into a web quest assignment. Through some trial error it has become apparent that developing a proper web quest will have to include more then just producing an essay at the end. As a result, I think the web quest will force teachers to begin thinking outside the box (I have at least) and force educators to begin applying some non-traditional methods of instruction, which can be more effective to learning.

Internet Safety

When I think of internet safety I generally think in terms of my own safety, that is to say I have been more worried about identity theft or credit card fraud, then about meeting people or coming across objectionable material.

That being said, I was always aware that many dangers existed on the internet beyond these simple ones. Having now watched and read the materials assigned I am fearful for young people. I teach in a high school and am aware of just how naive and gullible teenagers can be. I tend to use assignments that include some internet research and now am a bit concerned. I would like to think that I am pointing my students in the right direction, but in all honesty how can I really know? The internet has apparently become a scary place. Considering the fact that it started as a place to simply share research among universities, it is amazing that it has turned into what it is. However because of what it is, it tends to encourage wrong doing on some levels. The bottom line then becomes that our kids need to have access restricted somehow and adults need to act as watchdogs. I realize my position on this is bordering on "gloom and doom" but for something this valuable, to be dangerous at all, is something I can not get past.

NJCCS/NETS

I was unaware until recently that technology standards existed. I think the move in the classroom towards technology based lessons and assignments is really the only way for our students to stay on the cutting edge of tomorrow's technology. I would personally like to see certain aspects of these technologies extended to our students at younger ages. Given the current job market and the economic climate we are facing, it is important that our students excel in as many skills as can be made available to them. Furthermore, our students really need to understand where technology is headed. In the last twenty years we have made advances beyond what most thought impossible only a generation ago, and as cliche as it sounds, we really have no limit when it come to educational tools and the future.

First Post

Welcome to my brand new blog, which I am creating for a graduate class.