Module 2

Hello

I thought I would add a few more reflections regarding module 2 after having another go at the blogs.

Firstly, to reiterate what I spoke about a few days ago, I can already see that blogs have their advantages. However, I must admit I was skeptical at first because of the hype I have heard about 'blogs' in the media. The manner in which it is used to spread 'gossip' is of concern and perhaps this type of web application begs the question - just who becomes responsible for what is published on the Internet and how are you able to make them accountable?

All that aside, I can see how such an application would have its advantages for students, particularly in terms of using this in ordinary class work. Students in junior school could use this application to make comments on work completed in class or specific issues surrounding a topic, such as, do you agree with the sacking of Jack Lang (year 9 history). Such a complex issue surely would be better teased out if students were able to discuss at length in the comfort of their own home. This would allow students to reach higher levels of thinking as they analyse eachothers comment and make their own evaluations. Furthermore, students who are normally shy or embarrassed in class might feel that they have more power behind the computer and perhaps put their two cents in more. Teachers can also monitor who makes what comment from home and a number of teachers have already confirmed that they feel they have more time in class to teach as they are not spending so much time marking homework.

I can also see some advantages for senior students studying the HSC. As an economics and business studies teacher it is important to stay on top of recent news. Perhaps a link could be created to relevant news articles and students could read these, make a comment online and teachers can provide feedback online.

However, the question is asked - should we expect that all students to have access to the computer almost all nights of the week to facilitate such a process? And if some students don't, how will this impact on their learning? I suppose the answer is you have to vary the task depending on the students in each class and the access they have to computers.

Much too think about!