Socially Networked Classroom- Chapters 5&6 Reflection

I enjoyed reading chapter 5 when the author explains how the future of education will consist of hybrid courses. Hybrid courses allows students to complete assignments both in class and online. Students have access to course work outside of the classroom. I have taken plenty hybrid courses throughout high school and college and I feel I benefited more by teaching myself discipline skills that I would not have learned by solely sitting in the classroom. Facebook is also mentioned in the educational future. Facebook can be used to create a group for certain classroom subjects. It allows students to connect with other group members and experts within that subject field. Teachers can also post assignment due dates and class information in the calendar that sends reminders.

Socially Networked Classroom Chapter 3&4 Reflection

In chapter 3 of Socially Networked Classroom, there is an overview of general rules that are accepted for blogging. William Chamberlain, a fifth grade teacher from Noel, Missouri, developed ground rules in which everyone has been able to abide by with much respect. His rules state that it is acceptable to critique but unacceptable to be mean, if you are going to say negative things remember to combine it with something positive, be sure to stay on topic, if you do not have anything to say, do not write anything, and always remember that others are able to comment on your post too. These general rules for blogging in the classroom could also apply in real life so creating ground rules is imperative. Blogging is something I would love to incorporate in a classroom because it allows students the opportunity to voice their concerns, ideas, and post relevant information. It also allows students the chance to hear from others all over the world and learn how different other parts of the world may be. There may be students that feel strongly about a topic that may not express themselves otherwise. A blog will give them the chance to do so without the anxiety of speaking aloud. The teacher however should always monitor the blog to ensure that the rules are being followed.