Journal #2

Groff, J, & Haas, J (2008). Web 2.0: Today's Technology, Tomorrow's Learning. Learning & Leading with Technology , Retrieved October 8, 2008, from http://www.iste.org/Content/NavigationMenu/Publications/LL/LLIssues/Volume3620082009/SeptemberOctoberNo2/36212g.pdf.

This article was all about the use of technology such as social networking, simulations and digital games within a classroom and how it can improve the learning of the students. The hand on use of these techniques by students has been proven to help them grasp a concept better and learn the subject in a different way. It creates a situation for the student to develop a deeper understanding of the subject matter by actually “living through it” let’s say if they are playing a digital game. For example the game Ayiti: The Cost of Life students would be able to gain a real life understanding on the cost of living and how they need to figure out what resources are important for their characters. The article does state problems with these techniques that the instructors may have, how they are not in control of the outcome that their students may have, however they can use this as a jumping off point for problem solving as a group. When one student encounters a problem the class can come together with the help of the instructor to find a solution as a group.

Question 1: How will the students be able to maintain an interest in the subject matter when not using video games?
Students who are able to play video games as lesson plans may lose interest when their teacher is doing a regular lesson plan that does not involve the use of online networks. The teacher will be able to have more creative freedom to change the lesson plans around and keep their students involved in the subjects that are being taught. The students will be able to get more of a range of different teaching methods which will improve their knowledge of a subject.

Question 2: What course of action should be taken when the students are not able to solve a problem together as a group?
When a problem is encountered that neither the teacher nor the students, as a collective group, are able to solve the use of resources either located at the school or online would be required. Another colleague at the school may have encountered a similar problem and could help or the technology specialist from the school may have the answer. The teacher should be ready that this problem may occur and have resources lined up to help.