Community Building with Technologies

Wikis and blogs seem to be very similar. Wiki pages offer the student the opportunity to build and edit a page about chosen content. The student then has the opportunity to collaborate with other students through dialogue. Wikis allow users to edit and change content. It is important to monitor a students wiki page to ensure content is accurate. Blogs are also a tool that allow the student to create content and share ideas. I would consider using wikis and blogs with students. It would be important to keep in mind the ability of the student and the purpose the wiki or blog could serve. I would consider it in a situation such as researching a topic for essay or presentation.

Social bookmarking could be very helpful in the right situation. It could serve a purpose for research assignments by making the research itself a little less time consuming. By allowing students to use social bookmarking, more pertinent information could be found faster and easier. The students could also contribute to the bookmarking thus helping others. Voice threads could be fun ways for students to shre information on the internet. I would consider making a voice thread in the right situation. It is another technological tool that could make learning fun and meaningful to students.

Tapped In seems to be another useful tool when used appropriately. I have not explored it more than what is in the textbook, but I feel it could serve a purpose in the right setting. I like that there are spaces where private conversations and meetings can take place. This could help the student feel better about asking questions and seeking help when necessary.

Reference:

Community Building with Technologies, Chapter 6. Meaningful Learning with Technology, 2008. Jonassen, D., Howland, J., Marra, R. M., and Crismond, D.