Journal #2

Breathing Fire Into Web 2.0
By Justin Hardman and David Carpenter

This article entitled, “Breathing Fire Into Web 2.0” was a much different article than the first one that we read. The first journal we wrote was about some of the downfalls of technology in the classroom. This article, on the contrary, explains how faculty and students can use technology to their own benefit during class time and when class is over. What I found most inspiring about this article was argument that it had for myDragonNet. The argument was most convincing because of it’s organization. There was a section for how myDragonNet got started, for how it was developed, for how it can be supported in the classroom, and for how it is going to be beneficial for everyone. This article argued that online and technological advances can and are being used for the well-being and the futures of our young students. This web tool is helping students with communication, group collaboration, and organization of their work.

1. As a future educator how do I see myself using technology to mine and my students’ benefit?
I see myself using the web to communicate with my students. What will I communicate? I will use the web to exhibit well-done student work, e-mail students and parents, calendar dates and deadlines, upcoming work that will be due, etc.

2. Are the technological advances being used to our students’ benefit right now?
Yes, I believe technology is playing a huge role in our students’ lives. So much of what is happening in our society is based around technology—whether it be the computer, or telephone, or camera, etc. If students are taught to use technology in a positive way (learning and working) rather than for only personal use (myspace.com, chatting, etc.) then the advances will work toward everyone’s benefit. MydragonNet is a great tool for learning, and archiving student work for the good of their future.