My initial reaction to google wave is that it is a positive technology piece with great possibilities. What impresses me the most is the hesitancy on google’s part to release the program. That speaks of high expectations and standards. Collaboration via internet connection opens doors for my smaller school district. Variety in classes isn’t available to us as we try to endure this economic downturn. It would be nice to have options with languages, literature, history, and science. Advanced students can be stunted without proper encouragement. This program may create more opportunities and spark interest for those who need a good nudge.
After running an online classroom via blackboard last year I found that there were several times I wished I could communicate with the students as a whole or in groups. Due to restrictions I was unable to do so. It would be interesting to see the change in the students’ attitudes and work ethic if I had access to Wimba or google wave.
My last concern would be that of protection. I’m sure google is well aware of internet predators and cyber bullying. Hopefully the last rough edges to be sanded out include some sort of protection for students and teachers.
Comments (2)
I had not thought of the dangers associated with using Google Wave, such as the one you suggested about online predators or bullying. I am not sure if the program already has system in tact that will prevent this happening, but one idea I had was to make each group private. Meaning, a teacher could set up a group chat or discussion board, or however the program is set up, and make it password protected. That would ensure that only those invited to join would be welcome. It would eliminate the possibility of unwanted people being associated with the private group.
Wow, never thought about it like that-chatting on blackboard. Leave it to the young minds to figure out everything. They are not afraid of trying out anything. Being that this was unusual for this student, I hope that his punishment was not too harsh. I think both side learned something new and the student who did that can be credited for the lesson taught. Could’ve been a lot worst. I learned something from this as well. Thanks