Blog Post #7

Wendy Drexler made a fun interesting video that was both enjoyable and educational. Many great points were introduced about a connectivism course where there is no textbook or lecture. More and more courses are becoming this way which can be a great thing for students who can research and do things on their own. The main question at the end was why is a teacher needed for a network course. A few examples were mentioned in the video about the teacher still being a guide and mentor. Students still need to be directed in the right direction with guidelines and criticism that are from the teacher who prepared the course.

The wonderful opportunity of technology in the classroom is definitely expanding in the 21st century and it still needs to advance drastically. Wendy is going to experiment this learning technique with middle school students, which I think is a fantastic idea. Some may wonder what even gives me that thought, but to me this video showed me one students creativity. I don't know what the assignment was but I'm assuming it didn't have many rules and it was left up for the students imagination.

Imagination and creativity have been neglected in the classroom more and more. Technology gives the opportunity for these important aspects of learning back into the classroom. It was mentioned that the network student had to learn how to do their own research and establish his own personal learning network. A little guidance into which direction to head can lead to many great things that a teacher can not teach. Browsing and finding information that will help you and further your knowledge is all up to the student.

Before I become an educator I have many more things to learn about the technological world of learning and teaching. Mrs. Drexler has taken that step into the world of experimenting with technology on her students and that is all it takes. Experimentation is one of the ways to see what works in the classroom and for your students to get the most out of it. Learning and blogging about what you want to try might be an easier step before actually taking it to the classroom. It all starts with doing your homework first, so you can be prepared for the test.

A 7th graders Personal Learning Environment video was a great guide into how easy it can be to organize and develop a PLE. I can barely compare both of our Personal Information Networks because hers seems further developed. Although, she has classes and information to simply upload an assignment on her page and I am searching to find some useful teacher blogs and websites to help me further develop as a future educator. It takes time to develop and research, soon my PLN will be created and useful.