Journal #4: It's Time to Trust Teachers with the Internet (NETS-T: 4,5)

Schaffhauser, D. (2010, December 1). It's time to trust teachers with the internet:a conversation with meg ormiston. Retrieved from http://thejournal.com/articles/2010/12/01/its-time-to-trust-teachers-with-the-internet-a-conversation-with-meg-ormiston.aspx?sc_lang=en 

Teaching in the 21^st century has become technological. In order to maximize student learning, it is pertinent to not only utilize technological tools but to also teach students how to use these tools. In her interview, Meg Ormiston discusses the importance of trusting teachers to use technology efficiently within the classroom. With the openness of the Internet, many administrators and districts put up blockers to certain websites deemed unsuitable for students. Although some blockers are absolutely necessary and reasonable, many administrators put up blockers everywhere, restricting sites that may enhance and increase student learning. Ormiston states, “Every time we get one of these new tools, we have an opportunity to engage students. That's what it's about. It's not about locking things behind the gate. It's about appropriate engagement.” We must trust teacher to both use and teach students how to appropriately use the Internet. If schools allow both teachers and students to successfully use the Internet, the opportunities for learning become endless.

Question 1: Is it appropriate and necessary to block all social networking sites (e.g. facebook, myspace, twitter, blogger, etc.)? I do not think this is necessary at all.  Seen in class, teachers can effectively utilize these websites to actually help and increase student learning. Yes, there are many ways in which students can ineffectively use these sites, but I believe that if the teacher presents knows how to appropriately use these sites, there should be a minimal amount of issues.

Question 2: What do you think is the best way to teach and employ “appropriate engagement” within the classroom? Blockers? Limited access? I think the best the best way is to teach the students responsible ways to utilize the Internet and to have them understand that while they are at school they must be appropriate. Also, presenting the internet as a privilege which is not to be abused will help to make students more responsible.