Tuesday, February 10, 2009

My Thoughts on Personal Learning Networks and Clarence

Clarence’s presentation explaining personal learning networks and their application in the classroom was very interesting…I really like many of his ideas and admire how he incorporates technology into his classroom in a natural and beneficial way. I am amazed at the variety of tools that exist as part of personal learning networks…like voice threads and I-tune pod-casts from university professors. Here are some specific details that I like:

  • Personal learning networks are a great way to connect kids with content and people in other parts of the world. This idea of a global audience.
  • I-Google tabs are a useful tool to utilize in the classroom to organize and share information sources.
  • Using themes then providing pre-screened sources which students follow over time. They must be ready to discuss this information as well as use it in class as required.
  • Writing assignments that are posted on a blog/wiki which other students/people can read and respond to.
  • Notify parents in advance and once the blogs are set, students are required to share the url with their parents.
  • Using “experts” within the class to teach technology to others.

One are of concern was raised during the presentation involved the safety of children on the Internet. As a parent myself, this is a huge concern that I address with my own children by monitoring their use of the computer, the sites they visit as well as discussing the dangers of “strangers” on the internet. Also, I teach my own children (and students) to know their internet source and not to believe everything they read on the internet (any more than TV).

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