I’m super excited about the class though I am finding difficulty making the time to complete all assignments. I think being a student again is helping me understand my students better as well. I find that the book is an easy read – straighforward with good insights. Some of the information seems intuitive but it’s still nice to “hear” someone else say it. I enjoyed Alec Couros’s video as it helped me to recognize the important role that social media can play in our classrooms. The message of meaningful connections was mirrored in the POT First Friday event on September 2 with Jim Sullivan who discussed blogs in the classroom. *NOTE – for anyone not attending POT First Fridays, I highly recommend. It is a great forum to listen, learn, ask questions and just be a part of this community. Much like our blogging here, but more interactive.
So part of my challenge is with social media itself. Intellectually, I see the benefits of social media. Students can put their ideas out for others – both in and outside of the classroom – to comment on. They get the sense that what they say matters which in turn builds confidences. Some might argue that the confidences actualized in an online environment might then translate to the confidence to speak out in an onground classroom or other face-to-face situation. I guess the part I struggle with is asking students to do something that I am not altogether comfortable doing myself. As an intensely private individual, I struggle with putting my stuff “out there.” I don’t facebook or tweet. In fact, I had never blogged before this class. This is part of why I am forcing myself to be a part of this POT experience - to get outside my comfort zone and stretch myself; in much the same way I ask my student to stretch and grow. I’m looking forward to these stretchmarks!
