Journal 2

Breathing Fire Into Web 2.0
By Justin Hardman and David Carpenter

The software developed for myDragonNet is one that is based off of the aspect that kids are using social networking devices and incorporating it into the classrooms and school system. The program does this from every aspect of schooling. The teachers have home pages that give information about their classes, calenders, email, documents, forums. There is a multimedia ability to have photos and videos. The system is dynamic and able to grow and be shared. There is also a curriculum aspect gives teachers and their coworkers the ability to track, analyze and adjust curriculum. It is based of the idea of Web 2.0 systems that kids are familiar and already using yet is used for more than social interaction. It incorporates the social interaction skills into a curriculum based program that can be used for education.

Question 1: How would I integrate this in my classroom so that the students would utilize it? I would implement it by using the calender to place homework assignments on it. The students would be responsible for looking up their homework assignment and completing it by the time due. I would also have the submit the assignments via this platform. I would use it for extracurricular networking and socializing. I think it would be a great tool if used properly.

Question 2: How would I ensure that this was not classroom activities and discussions? I would implement a time period with in the class to review and discus what ever is on any discussion boards. I would also have students be participants in creating some of the aspects of the system in a group setting. This would give them responsibility and ownership of the site.