Social Media, Video Conferencing, and Blogging OH MY!

As I reflect back on my most recent course, Collaborative Web Tools in Education, the first thing that comes to mind is slippery slope. We had some wonderful discussions in class regarding the use of social media, blogging, video conferencing, and the likes in the classroom. The discussions would usually start off with, 'yes we think it is a good idea to use them in class', but then after further discussion and more probing questions usually by our instructor, the class typically circled back to  using collaborative web tools with discretion. I believe using collaborative web tools in elementary can be a slippery slope if teachers are not educated and prepared to use them.

First of all there are many issues surrounding the use of web-based collaborative tools in schools. The first that comes to mind is security. Safety of students is the number one priority in schools. With the wide spread of online tools, many teachers and students use apps or websites that may not have gone through the wringer and thoroughly tested from the district. As a result, there could be loopholes and/or potential security issues that put both the students and the teacher at risk. I believe using district approved apps or programs (like G-Suite, Schoology, etc.) could help ease teachers into collaborative web tools. It is certainly better to error on the side of caution when using online web tools. To be honest, I cannot see myself teaching without Google Classroom and other G-Suite resources and feel more comfortable knowing it is approved by my district!

Another important issue is digital footprint. In the digital world, everywhere you go, what you say, post, touch, click, send, text, etc. leaves a trail. Unfortunately unlike footprints in the sand, this trail stays with you. Students need to learn this at an early age since they are exposed to electronic devices so young.

I think it would be great to perhaps visit other districts where they are effectively using web collaborative tools, specifically video conferencing and blogging at the elementary level. I definitely see the benefits in using them in the classroom; however, I suppose I am just too hesitant and reserved to use them in fear of security issues mentioned above. I need to continue to research and reach out to PLNs and my district for ideas.

I look forward to continuing the journey towards my Tech Specialist Endorsement. Maybe my reservation for using Social Media, Video Conferencing, and Blogging in the classroom will subside as I gain more knowledge and understanding of tech resources. Until then I say...Social Media, Video Conferencing, and Blogging OH MY!