The article , : A Global Challenge" by David Gibson and Susan Grasso starts off with a high expectation of technology. Two college students collaborate via Internet across the world to develop a global business plan. Using collaborative technology to research and explore a common global problem is very much a reality. I really enjoyed this article because it has to do with a very serious environment problem, and this is proof that people care. After reading this article I discovered ideas I had never been aware of before to help solve our world's challenging dilemmas. I was excited that high school students around the globe are all thinking of ways to help out our world. It also allows the students to expand their social network with people around the world. Global teamwork learning is a great experience for any student to participate in. Hopefully someday working as a team with this integration of technology will find a cure for cancer! A very detailed application process is required for this particular contest learning experience that gives away a scholarship.
1.) Why is A Global Challenge a positive program?
In addition to the participates/students receiving a real-world experience to solve a global problem, they are able to socialize with diversity. Team member dynamics is an important part in moving forward with their education and life goals. With such a structured, advanced program, nothing but recognition is presented for students who choose to use the opportunity as a global outreach. It is an opportunity to reach out to people just like us across the world and collaborate ideas and solve an issue.
2.) How can you make the Global Challenge award part of your curriculum?
First and foremost would be to have your students look at the website. A scholarship is at stake so it should be promoted and also gain students interest. You can incorporate real challenges into your lessons, but without the pressure of entering the actual contest. It promotes ideas and encourages teamwork among classmates. Reaching a goal and solving a problem is a great part of working together as a team. Children are full of new ideas and can commit to different level of connecting with the world and solving a real global issue with this program. Knowing that they make a difference and can communicate with children across the world is motivation for this beneficial project.
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Saturday, January 5, 2008
Journal 9-My Space or Yours
This article was written by Joanne Barrett, and presents a number of issues with social networking, and how technology is creating safety concerns in the classroom. Social networking has been a great bonus to our world wide web because it typically connects people. Shared interests are joined together and allowed for viewing by any number of individuals. Some are exclusive memberships and cost money, others are free and have no restraints. As the latest technology fads come and go, we learn more and more about how to protect ourselves in an ever changing world. Children nowadays have to deal with exposure to many more poisons.
Among the younger generations, getting a MySpace or Friendster name is the same as exchanging phone numbers. I personally never had time to get into the MySpace era...although I have many friends who "check it" all the time. It allows one to post information that may or may not be true. One has to acknowledge that these sites cannot be reliable. Many people pose as others, such as famous people, sports players, etc. With regard to school, it has been on the news across the country for numerous reasons. Teachers with explicit pictures, drug use, or even messages to other students. Teenage students writing and posting mean things about peers at their school, and causing harm. Although it doesn't happen directly on campus, educators need to be aware of the harm it can pose. There also should be off site online regulated behavior. Overall the article says that some social networking sites can backfire. The responsibility has to be taught, learned and put into effect as to stop the negativity, and otherwise false or personal information.
1.) What are some safety measures to take when considering social networking?
All future educators and parents are advised to check out wiredsafety.org for a complete list of precautions. In general, be smart about what others can find out about you. Listing where you live or work, even the name of a school can give anyone too much information. Keep in mind that if you wouldn't want a future employer or your parents to see something you posted or wrote, then it is not a good idea.
2.) How can you use social networking in a positive way?
You can use social networking to keep in touch with old schoolmates, far friends and family. Once you can be sure of the authnenticy of a user, and allow them into "your group" then staying more private is possible. You can also view social networking for advice or shared experiences. I have found it helpful for traveling and cooking ideas or recipes. In the classroom, social networking can be limited.
Among the younger generations, getting a MySpace or Friendster name is the same as exchanging phone numbers. I personally never had time to get into the MySpace era...although I have many friends who "check it" all the time. It allows one to post information that may or may not be true. One has to acknowledge that these sites cannot be reliable. Many people pose as others, such as famous people, sports players, etc. With regard to school, it has been on the news across the country for numerous reasons. Teachers with explicit pictures, drug use, or even messages to other students. Teenage students writing and posting mean things about peers at their school, and causing harm. Although it doesn't happen directly on campus, educators need to be aware of the harm it can pose. There also should be off site online regulated behavior. Overall the article says that some social networking sites can backfire. The responsibility has to be taught, learned and put into effect as to stop the negativity, and otherwise false or personal information.
1.) What are some safety measures to take when considering social networking?
All future educators and parents are advised to check out wiredsafety.org for a complete list of precautions. In general, be smart about what others can find out about you. Listing where you live or work, even the name of a school can give anyone too much information. Keep in mind that if you wouldn't want a future employer or your parents to see something you posted or wrote, then it is not a good idea.
2.) How can you use social networking in a positive way?
You can use social networking to keep in touch with old schoolmates, far friends and family. Once you can be sure of the authnenticy of a user, and allow them into "your group" then staying more private is possible. You can also view social networking for advice or shared experiences. I have found it helpful for traveling and cooking ideas or recipes. In the classroom, social networking can be limited.
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