Journal 8: Navigate the Digital Rapids- NETS 4 and 5

Lindsay, Julie, & Davis, Vicki. (2010). Navigate the Digital Rapids. International Society for Technology in Education, 37(6), 1-5. Retrieved March 23, 2010, from http://www.iste.org/Content/NavigationMenu/Publications/LL/LLIssues/Volume3720092010/MarchAprilNo6/Navigate_the_Digital_Rapids.htm

Summary: In this article, the two authors discuss how teachers and students can become good digital citizens. First, the article relates seven different ways that teachers can be good digital citizens, namely by: customization, monitoring students and being engaged, having a plan, overcoming the fear factor of technology, dealing with technological objections, allowing for tangents in discussions and putting the learning into the hands of the students. Second, the article defines what flat classroom projects are and how they can be successfully implemented into classrooms. Basically, the idea of a flat classroom project is that teachers use Web 2.0 tools, such as to "flatten," or lower, the classroom walls so that instead of each class working alone, two or more classes join virtually to become one large classroom. These flat classroom activities allow for cross cultural collaboration and communication. Lastly, the article provides various resources that give examples of flat classroom projects, and give information for teachers, parents and students about digital projects for the classroom.

Question 1: According to this article, what is the difference between educational networking and social networking, and how can teachers help establish this difference? The article explains that an educational network is professional group of people coming together for the purpose of sharing experiences in a focused and monitored environment. On the other hand, a social network is comprised of family members, friends, neighbors, etc. The purpose of social networking sites are usually for communication about other matters than academic affairs. This article stated that teachers need to establish this distinction between educational and social networking in their classrooms because students will feel inclined to use text speak or other inappropriate behavior online if they are not told to do otherwise. So teachers need to lead by example and make sure that all of their students are engaging in proper cyber etiquette.

Question 2: What have I learned from this article that I will take away with me and apply while teaching? I learned that it is so important for teachers to help students have a positive digital footprint with academic material included. These e-portfolios could be used in future job interviews or as supplements to college applications. Thus helping students establish a positive online presence will help them in achieving their future academic goals. I also learned the importance of getting students involved in student-centered, globally connected projects. These projects will be meaningful to students because each student's learning experience will be markedly different.