Social network technologies broaden the availability of research tools to meet the educational needs of students. Thus, it is important to understand that not all the information found on the internet has been researched; therefore, many articles are not considered empirical data. This causes an obvious problem when students are becoming familiar with new information or trying to build on new principles. My biggest concern with technology is that it takes away from creativity and using your imagination.
Hi Alicia,
ReplyDeleteThank you for your thoughts on social media. But I must respectively disagree that technology does not give students the ability to be creative. I think the tools we have access to give all students the opportunity to demonstrate learning in ways they never had before.
I agree wholeheartedly with you if we are talking about software programs that students just fill in the blanks. But there are so many terrific web-based tools that give every student the opportunity to creatively express themselves.
If I have the natural gift to draw, I can do that on paper or on the computer. If I don't have that natural gift, I still have the ability to draw and imagine using software and online sites that allow students to use their imagination for images and pictures.
Music, story telling, art, video, speaking, and building things are all available to our students with web-based tools and websites.
So I hope you find resources beyond canned programs that build or image for students. Rather, let them express themselves with the creative tools available. You know, that is Apple's main focus for education - giving students the opportunity to learn and demonstrate that learning with products they make themselves. That is what iLife is all about.
Paper-based creativity is great - but don't limit that creativity to just paper. You are a creative teacher - expand into new places and new tools!
The sky's the limit - explore and play!
Joanne