I admit that I have come to depend on the Internet to do everything from conducting research to looking for answers to health questions. I find that it is easier to search the Internet for answers, as opposed to calling family, friends or instructors. The Internet has afforded me the opportunity to stretch my knowledge base and learn about things which I would never have taken the time to explore for various reasons. The one thing my husband may say it has done is helped me become a better cook as I connect with cooking experts online while building my repertoire of recipes. I begin preparation of each new recipe by watching a video which demonstrates the steps which I need to take, as well as what my product should look like from beginning to end. As a result, I have learned a lot about food products, cooking temperatures and using herbs to name a few. My use of the network has increased my ability to explore advanced connections of food preparation, as I continue to build my cooking skills.
As a former Special Ed and Social Studies teacher, I would definitely introduce interactive timeline tools and mind maps to my students. I believe these tools will help them organize historical data and to brainstorm about issues which may have caused or perpetuated events being studied. However, the most compelling reason for introducing these digital tools is that they will make inputting data easier for students with poor handwriting, add color, make learning fun, and create enthusiasm for completing assignments with regards to the learning and seeing the connections. As instructional tools, they will help my students construct learning while making connections and building their knowledge base.
Hey Monica! It is a little difficult to view you mindmap but I'm sure you listed great avenues! I like how to videos as well. There is an iPhone app (one you have to pay for) but I love it! My kids actually told me about it! Life skills for them like tying a tie =)
ReplyDeleteAlthough difficult for me to read, I know that your mind map is excellent:) I wish that the internet had the effect of becoming a better cook on me. Perhaps one day:) However, my network of sites that I have bookmarked enrich me as a person, as a learner, and as an educator.
ReplyDeleteMonica--
ReplyDeleteYour mind map is impressive. Wow!!! You have a lot of contacts. Mine is pale by comparison. I am a little ashamed of my mind map when I look at this monster. Way-to-go. I liked the way that you posted the world with the computer; it just shows the individual that the mind map includes everybody, which we should be well aware.
Good Post.
Monica:
ReplyDeleteI also have to admit that I too rely heavily on the Internet; even so, the issue I have tends to be whether the information can be relied upon or not. Right now there is a wealth of information that is not necessary accurate but those that have published the information are well versed in web esthetics. GUI technology has made everyone or anyone who desires it an expert web designer. For example, there are a lot of site that encourage “work from home...” it is very difficult to tell if it’s a pyramid scheme or a legitimate job offer. This is where again, although I subscribe to the principal of connectivism, there are other considerations and precaution that must be resolved.