Searching and Questioning

Convenient and Powerful Search Tools

This week I explored a variety of tools that can enhance search engine results. Some of them I had used before, such as using Google as a calculator, unit converter, and translator. I also learned about many new search tools, including using Google as a dictionary and searching for copyright-free images. Here is a link to a presentation that I and my classmates created that give a brief summary of many search tools. I created slide #4 about using Google as a dictionary. This presentation will be updated throughout the week, so check back often!

Creative Commons is one of the tools that piqued my interest. Creative Commons is an organization that collects copyright-free images for anyone to use. I have often used images from search engines and websites without any concern over whether or not they were copyrighted. Creative Commons allows me to use millions of free images with a clear conscience. The easiest way to find these images is to type "creative commons" after any Google Image search. Here is a video to find out more:

Creating Surveys using Google Forms

While I had already explored Google Forms for the first time a couple weeks ago, this week I went more in depth. I created a presentation explaining to how use Google Forms to create a survey. This is a very convenient tool that I intend to use with my students, their parents, and even other teachers. Click on the link above to learn more!

Social Media in the Classroom

Benefits and Risks

Social media offers a wide range of benefits for students and teachers. Students can connect with students and content experts around the world, and teachers can connect with parents. Social media also has risks involved. Students can bully others or be bullied, and students can engage in or be exposed to sexually explicit content.

The benefits of social media can be pursued while avoiding some of the risks by having students use school accounts on school issued devices. I do not support students using their personal social media accounts while at school because of the potential of bullying, sexting, and other negative uses. I also do not support students using their cell phones to access school accounts while at school because the phones also be used for these negative purposes. However, if students use school laptops or tablets to access school social media accounts, the school can more easily ensure that these are being used for learning and not for hurting.

Students must also be taught how to use social media constructively and safely. All students should be taught online safety and digital citizenship. Teachers should be trained how to use social media constructively, intelligently, and appropriately. Schools should have clear policies that protect students from the potential dangers of social media while empowering them to use social media to enhance learning and enrich their lives.


Pinterest and Symbaloo

This week I explored two social media sites used to share links: Pinterest and Symbaloo. I have used Pinterest before, although I am by no means a Pinterest junkie like my wife some other people I know. Symbaloo was new to me. After using both, I most definitely prefer Pinterest. I found it easier to use and more visually attractive. Symballo seemed clunky, plain, and more time-consuming. The Pinterest toolbar button makes it really easy to add links. Another huge benefit for Pinterest is that many more people use it, which is important for a site that is about sharing resources.

Here is a video demonstrating how teachers can use Pinterest in the classroom: