Thing 9

Times are changing. The way we instruct and the way we learn is changing too. Web 2.0 is proof. There are so many opportunities to share information and communicate with each other in ways we had once never imagined. When we all finally catch up (if that's possible) to today's technology and become educated in the many possibilities (or at least a lot of them- 23 Things is a great start!), we will be on our way to being some of the most effective teachers the educational system has ever seen! I truly believe this.

What amazing ways to reach EVERY student, EVERY day, and make those special connections you don't always have time for in a 40 minute period or a 22 day cycle. How incredible it would be to have access to the thoughts of all our students, or all of our colleagues, and provide them with ours as well. How fabulous it would be to share our ideas and creations and collaborate to make a greater end product with our neighbor in the next seat and a student half a world away at the same time! It is all just too exciting.

And while the excitement is overwhelming, we must remember that all this great technology comes with responsibility as well. We have the responsibility to act ethically when using such technology, and when viewing and downloading other creations on the web. This is tough, since so few people out there even understand what the laws and procedures are. Teachers need professional development on this topic. Students need to see consistency across the board in EVERY subject. They need to be held accountible to act responsibly with technology.

I was intrigued by the Creative Commons website. I wasn't expecting that to be what it was all about. I guess I am always thinking about being the "borrower" as opposed to the one who is being borrowed from! But that is a very important piece to teach our students. I like the idea of being about to build on your ideas/creations by allowing some rights to others who would like to use your work. Cool stuff!