EDLD+5364+Observations+Week+1

I thought it was interesting that social networks (Facebook, etc) are all over the news and the readings for this and my other Lamar classes. I am glad that serious criticism of this social phenomenon is reaching such a scholarly level.

“Social networks – despite their performance, promise, and potential – are not without controversy. Like so many other technological innovations, social networks are accused by many of impacting society and education negatively (McPeeters 2009).”

I see that social networks do have great potential for assisting the learning process. However, I also think that teachers AND PARENTS are responsible for teaching their kids good web ethics. Our school is currently discussing allowing our students to use their cellphones during the school day. I'm not sure I understand how this will benefit their education. I just see a whole lot more on tests. Any serious research could be conducted on school equipment.

“Technologies do not guarantee effective learning, however. Inappropriate uses of technology can hinder learning—for example, if students spend most of their time picking fonts and colors for multimedia reports instead of planning, writing, and revising their ideas” (Bransford, J.D., Brown, A.L., & Cocking, R.R., 2000) I have seen these types of situations many times in the classroom.

McPheeters, D. (2009, March). Social networking technologies in education. //Tech and Learning.// Retrieved October 4, 2009 from http://www.techlearning.com/article/16250

Bransford, J.D., Brown, A.L., & Cocking, R.R. (2000). //How people learn: Brian, mind, experience, and school.// (Expanded edition). Ch. 9, pp. 194-218. Washington, D.C.: National Academy Press. Retrieved on October 4, 2009, from @http://books.nap.edu/openbook.php?record id=61608&page=194