1-2: Web 2.0

      Technology has changed the future of education in significant ways. An abundance of research has been conducted which proves that the integration of technology across the curriculum has a variety of benefits for student learning. The main purpose of technology integration is to deepen and enhance student learning (Edutopia, 2014). When used appropriately, technology has the power to promote active engagement, participation, frequent feedback, and connection to real-world experts (Edutopia, 2014). The emergence of Web 2.0 tools has allowed for "individual, continual, highly personalized experiences" (Module one, n.d.). 
     There are four categories of Web 2.0 tools: presentation, video, mobile, and community tools. Community tools allow students to connect with peers across the globe (Module one, n.d.). In the book The World is Open, Bonk (2009) describes using UStream to connect with educators across the world in presenting information about the field of education. Students can use technology in a similar manner by creating video casts, podcasts, or live conferencing with students in other classrooms around the world. Students learn valuable skills in information literacy by participating in a networked public culture (Baumbauch, 2009). 
      Web 2.0 tools also allow students to create more than ever before. Many tools are user-friendly, requiring little to no prepreuiste knowledge. Students can use tools such as Animoto, Wordle, VoiceThread, MovieMaker, or Inspiration to create digital representations of their knowledge that can then be shared with classmates, parents, and community members. In this way, technology encourages creative expression for authentic audiences and promotes useful feedback (Baumbach, 2009). Meaningful learning tasks such as this will also help promote student engagement and interest in subject matter.
     Technology integration is no longer a question of should I do it? but more a question of how can I do it best? Teachers need to take the time to learn about new technologies and practice using them themselves so they are confident in intregrating them into their curricula. It is imperative that teachers integrate technology in order to prepare students for a successful future, as well as to meet federal and state guidelines.


References

Baumbach, D. J. (2009). Web 2.0 & YOU. Knowledge Quest, 37(4), 12-19. Retrieved from http://ezproxy.snhu.edu/login?url=http://search.proquest.com/docview/194731808?accountid=3783

Bonk, C. (2009). The world is open. San Francisco, Calif.: Jossey-Bass.

Edutopia,. (2014). Technology Integration. Retrieved 18 November 2014, from http://www.edutopia.org/technology-integration

Module one: Technology: A global education tool (n.d.). Retrieved November 18, 2014 from bb.snhu.edu