Tuesday, October 13, 2009

The Networked Student: by Wendy Drexler

Great article on the networked student


This assignment was about the networked student. It described networking in the 21st century. It told of various ways a student builds his network learning from scratch. It is done with no text or lecture. It is about connecting through networking using tools of technology. It places emphasis on students connecting with others through learning processes. First, the student has to build a network. He does this through using google scholar and a library database. These two are created into a bookmark for future use. Sites are shared among other students and placed into his database. Second, he checks out blogs created by other educators on the subject matter being studied. Comments are read and posted. Third, he creates a blog with his own knowledge. Last, he can log into ITunesU and hear lectures from professors from all over the globe speaking about his subject matter. He inputs his new knowledge into his newly created "virtual textbook." He can incorporate sound and video and then he is ready to share his new knowledge through wide range communication connections.

The question is asked: "Why does the network student even need a teacher?" I have asked this same question myself and wondered the answer. Through this video, I discovered the networked student needs a teacher for many reasons. He needs someone who can be a model for him in building a network and taking advantage of learning opportunities. He needs someone who can be there to answer questions, offer guidance, and distinguish between good and bad information that is received. This teacher can also instruct him and help him to organize information. They can instruct him on how to ask questions from other experts in a respectful and professional way. The main important reason is to navigate the student into a future for technology. I found this video insightful and would recommend anyone out there questioning the resourceful use of technology to watch it at http://is.gd/2cgBb.

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