Exploring The World Wide Web In The Classroom

Now that I have access to the Web, how can I use it effectively?

It is important to make sure that you use the Internet as a productive tool for learning.  The Internet can be used for so many different things; a large database of information that varies in accuracy and timeliness for immediate to outdated or an expensive communication tool that allows us to interact with the world.  A tool that allows us to teach a lesson or take a class from anywhere in the world on any subject.  A tool that promotes creativity and innovation, research and information, critical thinking, problem solving, and decision making.  A tool to have real time interaction with others or to bring a demonstrator to your classroom without actually having them there.

How do I manage students' use of the Web in my class?

It is up to the teacher to be sure that students are using the Internet appropriately.  Your school should have an acceptable use policy in place.  I believe it is important to let students know that the Internet is a privilege that should be treated with respect.  One suggestion the book made about placement of the teachers desk is to be sure that you are able to view your students computer screens from your location.  Having your desk in the back of the room can assist with this.  It is also important to make rounds regularly to see what your students are working on.  If you seat your students in small groups, and work with a student centered learning environment it is less likely they will go against the rules without your knowledge however because you are making rounds you can't always see everything being done.  Always keep an eye on the task bar to see what screens your students have open.  Again, student placement is a good strategy to keep an eye on your students.  You can place your students desks in a U shape formation and require your students to sit on the inside of the U when using the computer.  Internet browser history keeps track of all of the sites viewed over a period of time.  As a teacher, you can review the history file any time you'd like.  As teachers it is our responsibility to teach our students the correct, appropriate and most effective way to use computers and the Web.  If we set clear parameters and expectations we should be able to manage our students and their computer use.

Which features of the Web do I use?

It is important to remember that computers and the Web are tools in school.  Therefore, as long as you are using the web in a way that is helping students or yourself learn as a demonstration or in a lesson it is appropriate.  The Web can be used to grade papers, research lesson plans, take classes, upgrade certifications, teach students, answer questions, etc.  The Web is a wealth of knowledge available to help us at any point.