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| Educational Social Networks |
I’m interested in learning more about technologies potential to make the learning process faster and better by allowing students to have learning experiences never before imagined. In the article “Current Trends in Educational Technology,” Thornburg describes the changes in society that impact new technologies. Educational Social Networks are a current technology that has emerged in the last few years based on societies embrace of social networking media. We can overcome many obstacles in today’s educational system by applying emerging technology to provide innovative instruction that increases the use of emergent technology. Ning Networks provides free software for educators wishing to create a on-line social network. Today’s students learn and participate in a global community. The diverse populations currently using or beginning to use a “new” technological advancement best define emerging technology and emergent technology. The current program is for North American K-12 and Higher-Ed educators hoping to advance on-line facilitation of “learning, best practices, educator-to-educator collaboration, or parental support”.
By considering advancements in technology we can prepare for and adjust to the changes as they impact varied populations (Thornburg, 2009b). Likewise, Thornburg explores how new technology is shaping society, as well as any problems associated with that technology. Educational Social Networks, social networks and general, can create problems and challenges associated with on-line security and safety of under age learners. A systematic approach to increasing the use of specific tools is the best way to facilitate the diffusion of an emergent technology. Participats in the Ning Networks can apply for sponsorship from Pearson. Beyond the “Brought to you by Pearson” on the top navigation bar, using the Ning Network through the Pearson member profile will allow you to create a free Educational Social Network. Educational leaders must be able to identify trends in technology advancement and the needs of the students they serve to promote the proper educational technology.
According to Thornburg, new technologies can be designed, adopted, and used in better ways. To influence the process of technology moving from emerging to emergent involves trying new things and coping with unfamiliarity. This type of curriculum and instruction exist because society has embraced social networks as a technology tool that facilitates meaningful communication and connections. Educational leaders must consider the process of embracing new technology when developing a systematic approach that includes investing in new technology. Educational Social Networks will become even better learning tools as designers create greater access to information and collaboration within a secure and safe environment. No matter how you define a technology as emergent or emerging it is important that educators consider our role in bringing about the adoption of new technologies. I’m excited about being a member of a community of educators who power their educational social network with Ning; I support the use of Web 2.0 Technologies in the classroom.
References:
Thornburg, D. D. (2009b). When is a technology emergent? Lake Barrington, IL: Thornburg Center for Space Exploration.
Thornburg, D. D. (2009a). Current trends in educational technology. Lake Barrington, IL: Thornburg Center for Space Exploration.
Using Ning for Educational Social Networks
Social Networking has created a "catch 22" for educators with regards to following federally mandated safety procedures and giving access to the tools the students need to collaborate in a global society. Our elementary students have traditionally been steered away from the social networking tools. I feel this is a huge missed opportunity both with regards to learning content and with learning appropriate use. I feel much the same way with banning cell phones on the K-12 campus.
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