Reflections-+Ch+3+&+4

__**APRIL DISCUSSION QUESTIONS**__

‍ **Chapter 3 pp. 59-82**
==‍ **-On p. 71 the authors have listed five methods for using network learning spaces online in classrooms. Discuss how you can put each of these to work in your classroom by giving examples.** ==
 * 1) Connect students and teachers inside the classroom.
 * 2) I have 2 classes where the class is connected and we can share information and conduct discussions. I have found this to be beneficial in making sure the students understand what is expected and the ability to share information and answer questions. I have students answer discussion questions where other students can respond.
 * 3) Publish student and teacher work locally and globally.
 * 4) I have 2 classes that are working towards this. One is developing the school webpage and the other is completing the yearbook. I know there is much more that I can do (and have the students do). I would like some of my other classes to be able to post their work on the internet for their families and the community to visit.
 * 5) Connect students and teachers outside the classroom.
 * 6) My classroom is not here yet. We need to get there, and I need to determine the baby steps to make it happen. I would like to be able to link my classrooms with other classrooms who are studying and learning about similar material. I would like my students to better understand other occupations and industries that we do not have locally.
 * 7) Connect with experts around the world.
 * 8) I know that I am not an expert in what I teach - and I would like my students to be able to ask questions of those who are experts in using particular programs (InDesign, Dreamweaver, etc.). I also would like the students to contact prefessionals who work in the same industries/professions that my students are interested in. This would allow the students to make sure what they believe is close to reality.
 * 9) Collaborate with others to create and share knowledge.
 * 10) I do not have any ideas on how to implement this in my classroom and look forward to hearing other ideas.

‍**- On page 87 the following questions were asked: **
==‍ **1) The reason that learning is changing is . . . . Answer the question "What is the reason that learning is changing?** == **Learning is changing because our world is changing, our needs are changing, our desires are changing. The students today are wired differently--they have more technology at their fingertips, more interaction with others in their community, country, and world, expectations of answers and solutions immediately. The educational and developmental expectations of our students has changed over the years. Over the last 15 years, education has required children to meet certain levels before they enter school, that used to be taught throughout the school year. And this is only getting worse. Students are learning from many different medias-school, television, youtube, google, radio, etc., etc., etc. Students (and teachers) can find the answers they seek immediately.** ==‍ **2) We really need to use learning networks because . . . Answer the question "Why do we really need to use learning networks?** == **We need learning networks to assist in teaching and learning what we are not experts at. I have a non-technology learning network: I have friends that are electricians, plumbers, farmers, mechanics, and so on. If I have specific questions, I seek out the expert and ask my question. Web-based learning networks give us the same ability-to seek out experts for answers and advice. The benefit of a web-based learning network is that I have have many connections who are experts, so in asking my question I get many different viewpoints from many different experts. Do we need to use them? YES. Do we have some networks already created? YES. Do we need more? YES.** ==‍ **-Chapter 4 gives details on how to st up a Networked School. We know that project is not possible for all of you, but you can setup a Personal Learning NEtwork with teachers in your building, in your school district, in the state, and in the nation and around the world. Describe the Personal Learning Network that you have created for yourself.** ==

**My PLN is still in development. I follow a number of technology-focused educators on Twitter. There are some who even follow me. I receive and read a number of tech articles and blogs on a daily basis. I seek out new information and post interesting websites on my diigo account (which I am still working on connecting the rest of the staff to). I share articles with administrators and other teachers. I know I still have a long way to go, but I try to make changes and improve my PLN on a regular basis.**