Web 2.0 - Week Two

Web 2.0 is an invaluable and necessary toolbox for collaboration, interaction, and connection. It hosts a vast resource of tools that have the power to enhance daily living, working, learning, and playing! It has evolved from a large data base (Web 1.0) to this media rich, read-write toolbox. As stated by Will Richardson in a Youtube segment, "more people are publishing, more people are connecting; this is the foundation for life-long learning." We need to keep a few key ideas in mind about Web 2.0:

* these are exponential times
* we are preparing students for jobs we do not even know exist yet
* in order to create change, we must understand it for ourselves

In the past, the future was easier to predict. This is difficult to do now. The future is much more collaborative than in the past. As teachers, we need to embrace this change. We must look at integration of Web 2.0 as long-term and job embedded. Teachers need to have understanding of Web 2.0 and its implications for teaching and learning on a personal level to utilize it effectively and efficiently in our profession. Schools have to choice but to make the necessary changes to challenge the digital natives that sit before us.

Introduction - Week One

I am hoping to learn some about the "inner workings" of the web and a little history as to how the web has evolved over time. Also, about what is projected for the future of the web. I would like to develop more of a comfort level using the web, for both personal and professional reasons, as I understand what I need to be concerned about when participating in web based activities. I feel these things will be important as I integrate more technology into my classroom
curriculum and work with our district technology committee/community on technology issues concerning our staff and students. I'm positive many more questions will arise as the course moves along. I am very glad to be here!