This blog aims to compile classroom activities that use technology as a tool for learning. This project is a response to the growing need for variety, creativity, and ingenuity in the modern-day classroom.
Gone are the days when teachers are stuck into the 'worksheet lab' concept -- when the only perceived way to introduce and cover the curriculum is to drag students to go over their 'assigned work for the day' in order to keep abreast of the school, district and state standards.
Teaching and learning can be fun. They only need a careful planning, a dose of creativity, an ounce of ingenuity (making local and available resources work), and a lot of spontaneity.
This effort is a product of a Professional Learning Network (PLN) initiative. Although I can clearly visualize how to maintain and sustain this blog, I am indebted to the voices in my PLN: our online facilitator and my co-participants. I wish to hear feedback and insights about proven and tested technology-integrated activities in their respective classrooms. I also wish to try and be part of their future 'experiments' in the classroom.
PLN as a new Social Networking with a twist
I have been a part of generations of social networks: Friendster, Multiply, LinkedIn, to HubPages and Squidoo, and now, Facebook. Below these giants were small, short-lived online communities that have not withstood the test of time. I have produced literally hundreds of posts, reviews, write-ups, and comments about anything that matters consequences in the online world.
PLN is an exciting virtual community for me because it is small and cohesive, and members share a common interest. This is different from the giant networks because it is "personal"; members can be reached easily without a need for an ad or a shoutout.
Generally, social networking is a plus for professional development because it enables me to stay connected with people who also have associations with other 'experts in their own rights' about topics and issues that interest me. It makes me wander into a 'small village' of individuals who have the passion for my passion, and who care for those that I care for.
My access to social networking can bring about a profound meaning to my students, their parents, and the community at large, because it introduces us into a new perspective, into a "whole new world," to borrow one of Disney's most popular phrases.
Social networking, however, has often been viewed as a negative influence, a culprit of crimes, and a promoter of violence. In my personal belief as a consumer of virtual ideas, it is our responsibility as adults and as professionals to enable the rest of the world to realize that social media, just like anything else in this world (whether it is food, medicine, or any other commodity), should be taken in moderation. Younger members of the society -- often too excited to be consumers of social media -- need guidance, and they need to be redirected once in a while.
When used properly, social media can be a powerful tool in learning, in teaching, in research, and in making this world a better place to live.
