Technology Self Assessment

Facilitate and Inspire Student Learning and Creativity (NETS-T #1)

"Top 10 Web 2.0 Tools for Young Learners" by: Chris Riedel
 

Chris Riedel wrote "Top 10 Web 2.0 Tools for Young Learners," an instructional article that simply presents Web 2.0 based tools that can be positively used within an educational setting.  Personally, I found this article straight forward and encouraging; it aided in changing my perspective on bringing web-based equipment into the classroom.  In fact, I chose to review and reflect on a resource derived from NETS-T #1, because, currently, I feel that I lack vision, knowledge, and tools to inspire students learning and imagination through web based material.  However, through such simple, yet innovating support, these tools can certainly find positive avenues within the classroom setting!

            Chris’ information derived from Gail Lovely’s descriptions of the “top 10 web 2.0 tools for young learners.” Lovely states the importance for these powerful tools within the classroom, especially for “the most vulnerable populations because they are the ones who need it.”  These vulnerable populations, for example, consist of the “young learners and non-reader.”

The list Lovely and Riedel present range from web based support that provides avenues to work analytically, creatively, individually, and communally.  My favorite tools were Kerpoof, Create-a-Graph, Yack-Pack, and Wikis.  I found that these tools specifically enabled creative and analytical thinking, placed value on the students’ voice, and created alternative ways to learn.  I am honestly starting to understand the importance of technology within the classroom, for technology can be presented in many forms!