Web 2.0

I went into the 2009 conference and was overwhelmed with the diverse topics being discussed, and then I realized that the topic that most interested me was Connecting Classrooms Across Continents. This was a major presentation of Kim Cofino and Jen Wagner at the 2008 conference.

I found it, and it was very worthwhile. The presentation covered the following topics

• The diverse Web 2.0 tools that can be used for connecting classrooms, including wikis, blogs, Skype, photo albums, podcasts, and other applications. I got excited about the diverse means that were available to support cross-continent communication.
• Helpful reminders that the collaborating teachers need to clarify the purpose and span of the collaboration. There are many curriculum design, logistical and technical considerations that must be worked out between the teachers for a successful collaboration. Kim and Jen helpfully listed these reminders as an attachment to their presentation.
• The existing networks to facilitate classroom connections. There were many listed in an attachment to their presentation. Again, I came upon Flat Classroom Projects (which I had discovered in my November blog post). I like its premise and its organization. This looks like a very promising network for our students and teachers. Maybe we should do an inservice on it.

Despite myself, I am getting in to this on-line conference. I like how I can engage in it at my own pace and pick and choose what I want to “attend.” I find it most useful when I have a specific topic or question that I want to pursue. Otherwise, I get overwhelmed with information. The other frustration is that every web page seems to be organized in a different way. Navigating through each one is like traveling through a foreign country where I need to quickly learn the language, the perspectives, the infrastructure,  and cultural assumptions of the land.