Hopefully through this course I will be able to tap into the resources available for 21st century learning. Most of the students I work with have been labeled "digital natives". What does this mean...? It could mean that they are well versed in using the digital media available to them. Learning and sharing the knowledge they gain. It could also mean that they plunder around in cyber space carelessly posting this and that, not really learning anything but wasting an awful amount of time.
I want to find a way to use social media, blogs, the web, ....... whatever is the digital buzz word du jour to enhance my Biology teaching. Most of the educators I talk to have no real insight into how to use this new tool. I want to start somewhere. Outside of using YouTube videos, down loading pictures for PowerPoint presentations or finding podcasts this is my extent of using Web tools. I believe I am missing out on many tools available to me to add to my"digital tool belt".
For this class I will set up a Google Docs page for students to post current event articles relating to topics covered in biology. I have used Google Docs before and was not impressed. I used the spreadsheet version with better success.
I would also like to teach my AP biology class at least part on line using the Moodle format the District has provided. I worked on the design and implementation of the Hybrid Biology course currently being taught at Central and Hale so I am hoping this is possible. Most Colleges offer classes online and this would be a great way to give my students a taste of digital learning.
