Most of what I knew before this course I learned from a YouTube Video about Web 2.0 which my significant other, Mike, shared with me. Until I began using these tools, I was not sure what the real purpose or benefit of each one was. I kept wondering why I would ever want to use Skype when the phone itself is easy to use and I already have great long distance service. I then realized I have great service in the United States, but not beyond. I began to see the benefit of global use with free calling services. I started to think bigger and outside of the box which holds the tools I already use everyday.
Also, with Skype's video call option, my daughters can show off their new kittens in action to Grammie in Maine...something they can't do over the phone.
Web 2.0 is about thinking outside of our existing "toolbox" and connecting to the world. All of this global thinking reminds me of a video I recently watched which touched my heart and reminded me how much we are all connected. Read this short introduction and watch the video, "Stand by Me", while you think about ways new technology tools can be used to reach out and keep you connected to the world.
Cheri -
ReplyDeleteI like how you said, "Web 2.0 is about thinking outside of our existing "toolbox" and connecting to the world." Right now, many of the staff I work with don't see that. They see technology as a bad thing or a waste of time. More and more videos and stories I am reading about Web 2.0, all prove that not only are we living in a web 2.0, but our students are possible best taught/engaged most when in fact were using technology.
Our "toolbox" was lucky enough to have a TI 83, pager, or bag cell-phone, maybe even Dial Up Modem using America Online. Their "toolbox" is muhc more advanced.
Cheri,
ReplyDeleteI must say that I agree with you on the Skype comment. I first thought that it didn't have too much use until I thought globally. Then I remembered another issue that came up in our school. One of our staff members would like to use Skype to reach other classrooms and students, however our system administrator has not allowed us to use it, due to safety or system security. I don't remember the exact reason. However, it's a shame because of the collaboration that could go on outside of our school. I am envious of my sister who attends UVM and is able to use Skype to work with others on projects (interviews and conference calls) in a way that was unavailable to me.
On a side note, I also wanted to say that the picture of the kitten is super cute.
I’m somewhat embarrassed to say that I’m not sure whether or not we can use Skype from our school or access TeacherTube. I know that we cannot access YouTube, but I’m anxious to go into the school to see what we can and can’t use. This class is teaching me so much that I can’t wait to return next year and use what we are learning. But will I be able to? I don’t know yet.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the kitten comment, we have a matching set (sister kittens) and we are enjoying the fun and chaos they bring to our home.