I can see the potential benefits of instant messaging and virtual worlds in an educational setting. Kids today are very much a multimedia--immediate information group. While the basics will always play an important role in education (chalk board, books etc…) ----we must always consider the audience to which we are delivering a message to. As teachers constantly compete for the attention of students they must use these technologies to succeed. As the expression goes--fight fire with fire.
We also need to keep in mind the pitfalls that come with new technologies. There is always a risk of technology for technology sake. When that happens the message that you are trying to deliver can get lost. You also have the added risk of students misusing the technology. Things like posting hurtful messages about class members or teachers, spreading rumors etc…With new technologies comes new problems (along with new opportunities).
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2 comments:
I particularly appreciate your last word about new opportunities. An effective professional educator is most likely looking for ways to promote learning that is relevant and stimulating, anchoring these in authentic contexts. I believe the educational context is changing (or at least should be...) Let's go and do it!!
You make a good point about catering to the audience. I mean, think about the most successful advertisers and marketers out there. Why do you buy their products? Because they give you what YOU want. Or at least they make you think they do.
For example, Super Bowl halftime commercial themes ... beer, scantily clad women, trucks w/ V-8 engines, cute animals (for the women) ... did I mention beer? The advertisers are giving the audience exactly what they want to see and the audience is buying the heck out of their stuff.
Are teachers really doing that with students? So many kids just aren't buying these days!
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