Reflection on Implementing a Networked Classroom

In chapter 3, Implementing a Networked Classroom in our Personal Learning Network book, the information was very helpful and packed full of ways to apply social media tools into the classroom.  I had to read the chapter more than once to obtain the material.  The chapter relays on-going, outside of the classroom, and successful tools to creating a connected classroom.  After reading about Clarence Fisher, I was inspired from his journey on turning his classroom into a learning networked classroom.   I joined Clarence (glassbeed) on twitter.  I feel that building my PLN, starting a connected classroom, and following Clarence will be a great asset to my classroom environment.

There are some advantages and disadvantages when to comes to changing a traditional classroom into a networked classroom.  Students are motivated when they are involved in authentic learning experiences that are meaningful to them.  The connections that are made expand interaction and collaboration outside of the classroom environment.  In a social networking classroom, using social media benefits all participates in a variety of ways. For example, these tools foster student’s technology and communication skills. Collaboration among peers creates a positive learning environment.  Networked classrooms benefits teachers and students in developing a respect for real life learning.  Learning to use social media tools and websites appropriately, in safe surroundings, will demonstrate the importance of a safe, responsible digital citizen.  Engaging students in social networking tools will prepare students for the environment in which they live.  Some key issues that are negative to having a networked classroom are that many school districts block most social media tools and websites.  School districts are slow to incorporate technology or they do not have the ability to handle the multimedia tools.  Another disadvantage of a learning networked class would be a lack of professional development for teachers.

Evolving into a networked classroom will be different from one classroom to another.  Time and patience will be essential in this process for all involved.  Building a personal learning network will be the vital key for a successful network learning classroom. Using social media and multimedia tools to implement into the classroom learning is a big factor of having a networked classroom.  Making connections, collaboration, sharing ideas and resources will facilitate the process.   Expect many challenges and problems however, having a troubleshooting and support plan in place will help when complications arise.

Having a network classroom would assist and individualize specific needs for students.  A learning network class could be tailored to fit individual academic, emotional, social needs. Meeting various students' needs, in language and any other diverse needs would benefit from class discussions, team interactions, and other class connections  Learning in this type of class will enrich learner diversity. Addressing the students with various needs would be represented in a networked classroom.   I believe the best way to sum it up is from Personal Learning Network (2011) “Collaborating with others to create meaningful important work should be the end goal of all of this”.