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Sunday, April 12, 2009

Chapter 4: New Tools in Schools

In this chapter the authors wrote about examples of schools that are using new technology. Of course I had to perform a quick internet search for "The New Tech High Learning System" and the "New Technology Foundation". What I found mirrors what our text states. Again, the main obstacle for more schools to implement this system is funding. Another of the models this chapter describes used community partnerships to implement internet connectivity between schools and homes. But the aspect that really makes sense to me in this example is the 120 hours of curriculum based professional development offered to staff. Staff development is definitely a missing piece in my district.

In the examples of how teachers are using blogs, wikis, podcasting, and digital storytelling in their classrooms I agree with the statement that one technological tool may be a better application than another for a specific project. This is where the teacher's knowledge of Web 2.0 tools can really help.

As I read and looked up the web sites listed in this chapter I realize again how much information is available; an overwhelming amount. It seems our district is behind in many ways but ahead a few. Here it is mostly up to the individual teachers to figure out how to implement Web 2.0 tools into their teaching. And, as a school librarian, it is my place to support efforts made by teachers in implementing the use of Web 2.0 tools in classrooms.

I have emailed the High School Journalism Broadcast Project link to one of our teachers. Even if our district does not qualify for grants, I think he might be interested in other information the site has to offer.

1 comment:

  1. Funding for equipment and even more importantly professional development is always behind the times. Without the PD, the equipment is largely useless and with out the equipment the PD is not very useful......a circular problem that needs to be handled as 1 issue to be effective.

    Even without all those things....it is exciting that some are leaping in and doing what needs to be done.

    Ann

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