Thing 18

1. I am not sure where to begin to answer this question.  I teach at a Catholic middle school, so we don't offer students instruction in a virtual classroom.  In saying that, I do try to incorporate virtual labs into my science instruction.  I think it was in an earlier "Thing" that virtual labs through "Edhead" was mentioned to be used for virtual dissections and surgeries.  I have also used virtual labs for chemistry related topics. 

In terms of extending my classroom, I have inquired about setting up a guest teacher via Skype to discuss life science topics related to ecosystems.  I have taken courses through Moodle and Blackboard and I am not sure how I would go about using those platforms for my needs.  For one, I think it would need to be a school or district wide intiative to truly implement virtual instruction.  I know the Diocese of Grand Rapids is testing virtual instruction in the Coopersville area and that there is a possible iniative w/a virtual group based in Miami to begin to implement more blended instruction. 

I already use my webpage to communicate w/my students and parents, however, I have not used anything like Skype or Adobe Connect to interact virtually and connect in real time.  I would like to do that as I said, w/a guest teacher.  We have Skyped at school and had a bullying presentation with a group from California. 

My plan then would be include trying  to collaborate with other science teachers or scientists  using TWICE or Skype.  I would like to make my webpage more usable.  I do post resources for all of my classes and I would like to make the page more useful.  I do put links on the webpage for webquests, videos and other online activities.  I also have students upload their assignments to me via my webpage and through Google docs.

2.  Navigating the Land of Online Learning  After navigating the Land of Online Learning as a student, I think for a student to be a successful online student is discipline.  Assuming the playing field is level, meaning that all technology infrastructure needs are adequate, a successful student needs to be disciplined to be able to work w/little "facetime" instruction.  I think if I was that age, I would have a difficult time in disciplining myself if the class was able to be completed away from school and direct supervision.  Which is why a good mentor would be necessary to help guide students in their online experience.

B. Sack