Journal 1 (NETS-T 1)

Light, D. (2011). Do web 2.0 right. Learning and Leading, 38(5), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/learn/publications/learning-and-leading/issues/Feature_Article_Do_Web_2_0_Right.aspx

In this article, Daniel Light talks about the dos and don'ts of incorporating technology in the classrooms.  He discusses what types of technology seem to work best in the classroom.  He defines individual and classroom blogs.  It was interesting to hear about some success stories and some unfortunate technology based homework assignments.  Overall, he seemed to say that individual blogs were successful if they were used as a mode of communication between the teacher and student.  Some students would get insecure about sharing some information over the Internet for all of their peers to see and possible judge.  Classroom blogs are good for provoking discussions where the teacher and all the students get to view and add to a topic.  Basically, David Light says the most important tools for doing Web 2.0 correctly are, "daily practice, focus on audience, and appropriate behavior" (Light, 1). 

Q1: As a teacher, how can I make students feel more comfortable about expressing themselves through something like an individual blog?
As a teacher, it is important to give much time and thought about how a question is asked and how the students are asked to be involved in discussion.  Students are very sensitive to who their audience is and the classroom blog should feel like a safe place to show expression with respect for oneself and others.  Daniel Light says "Teachers address this issue in two ways: by directing them to different audiences (through the restriction of access to some online activities) and by carefully selecting assignments that are appropriate for each audience (Light, 1). 
Q2: What is the most important aspect of doing Web 2.0 correcting?
Using appropriate behavior is of the utmost importance for successful implementation of Web 2.0 in the classroom.  A good in-classroom foundation of support is key to a successful online community.  By setting the guidelines for behavior in the classroom, students know to use the online-classroom as an outlet for academic articulation.