Week 4

What is the role of the teacher in helping students to make meaning of primary source material?
I would have to say that I think our role is an important one. I think all too often some of my coworkers, who I adore, forget that the kids are not born ‘knowing’ how to do things. My fifth graders do not know how to use their planners, study for a test, or even organize their binders. So how can we expect them to make meaning of primary sources without direct instruction? It is our job to teach them how to do these things. If left to their own devises, many do not use their planners; they won’t study for a test; their binders will be overflowing with papers…if given the right tools, we are truly helping our students. We are arming them to be lifelong learners. November states that primary sources are “not just teaching historical content, but also encouraging valuable research skills” (November, 2010). These are skills that they will use for the rest of their lives. If given the tools needed, they will be successful. What more can I ask?
Explain the differences between blogs, wikis, and web-based word processors (Google Docs). Briefly identify one classroom activity for each type of tool.
Blogs, Wikis, and Web-Based word processors are all online collaborative/interactive technologies. Blogs are typically a website that is controlled by one person. Only the original author can edit the content and is in control over whether or not others can post comments. Wikis are not that different from Blogs, however, they are more open to the global community as far as editing the content. Once the Wiki is created and shared, it can be altered by others at any time. Lastly, web-based word processors are as open, or private as the author wishes. They can be shared with one, two, or as many people as are willing to share in the editing process of a piece of writing.
I am most excited with the possibility of Google Docs and the collaboration that can happen for my students in a group setting. They will be able to literally create a piece of writing together. I think that it opens the doors to a more equitable ‘share’ of a project.
Blogs could be used for book groups, teachers could post questions on their blog and students could respond online and to each other as opposed to pen and paper, which many are reluctant to do anyway.
And, Wikis could be used in much the same way as the blog, but could be controlled by the students in the book club. Or the teacher could set one up to share information with the students, work/due dates, handouts, homework... and videos. The possibilities are endless.