Before I started exploring these social networks, I already had a negative outlook. I just couldn't see social networking sites used in the classroom. However, I had NO idea there were so many other social networking sites! I just thought there was Facebook, MySpace and Twitter. But once on Ning I searched "First Grade", since that's what I am teaching this year, and found a whole site dedicated to first grade teacher with resources, forums, and more!! I requested to join, because I am excited to see what other First Grade teacher are doing and I am eager to try new things in my class!! I couldn't see much because my membership has to be approved first, but from the home page, and what I could see, I know this will be a great resource for me!
While checking out Classroom 2.0, I came across a great discussion post on what technologies we teachers are using in their classroom. I found several Web tools that I haven't heard about yet. It was fun checking them out and deciding which would be good for me and my team. I love how Classroom 2.0 has weekly shows. That way, if there is a topic that I am interested in, I can tune in! There are so many great resources out there for Social Networks. I feel bad that I was so against them in the beginning. I really can't wait for our next team meeting so I can share these resources with them. This should help make lesson planning easier, and finding new ideas more fun! I get bored with doing the same thing over and over, and instead of trying to reinvent the wheel each year, I can check out what others are doing, and share my ideas as well!!
I can see as a first grade teacher it might seem odd to be using social networking... but I use it all the time with my 8th graders! they love it! glad you are finding a use for it to improve your self as a teacher!
ReplyDeleteI did not realize there were more either. I've seen several people talking about Classroom 2.0. I will have to check it out. Since I teach middle school, social networking will be a great way to engage my students. They live on facebook anyway. It is exciting that you are trying these tools with such young children. They are fast learners.
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