4.3 Reflection: Social & Professional Networks

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4.3 Reflection: Social & Professional Networks (Pass / No Pass)

The Internet has made such a huge impact in the way I teach; it’s hard to begin to discuss this amazing tool.  I feel I am connected at all times to family, friends, and professionals in my field.  So, we all use Facebook, but personally I feel this one tool in particular has allowed me to remain in contact with people around the globe whom otherwise would not take the time to keep in contact.  The most amazing day was when my Dad set up a Facebook page and began using it to tell all of his kids about his daily activities.  I look forward each and every day to hearing about even the smallest things my parents have done.

In my classroom, we use our class blog and webpage to stay connected.  I love hearing about what the kids are doing and learning and especially keeping in touch with former students.  It keeps me grounded and positive that I have made even a small difference in their lives as I hear about all the great things they are continuing to do.  We also have a Facebook page called HughesNator Productions as I view all of my former students as products of our classroom, led by myself, the HughesNator,

If my students were asked this question, I think their answers would be similar.  It is a common connectedness we can all share.  For them it goes beyond Facebook and Twitter, they have the world at their fingertips.  Anything they are interested in is just a click away.  They can explore information whenever they want and then share it with others if they choose.  My answer to many of the questions they ask daily is, “Let’s Google it.” and the search begins.  Allowing them and encouraging this exploration can only enhance their learning experiences.  I try to find different ways for the students to use the Internet and Web 2.0 tools to analyze, create, and share their learning with others including their parents.

As for my learning, I am a member of so many different professional discussions through the Internet it is hard to keep track.  One site I use weekly to keep up on the latest in education is Thinkfinity.org where I am a certified trainer.  There are so many resources here for professional development and for teachers to use with students, If you have a question you can post it on one of their many discussion boards and you will be shocked at how many great responses you get.  These types of sites make it easy for me to keep up on the latest trends, search for lesson support, and find new sites for my students use.  I spend way too many hours each week researching, reading, and exploring all the Internet has to offer and for that, I am a much better educator than I could possibly be left to my own devices.