The whole idea of transferring the outside world into school is a large part of my program. With the different social networking sites such as Facebook.com, Myspace.com, and Twitter.com. I thought to locate something geared mainly towards schools. I searched for education in go2web20.net and found http://www.twiducate.com.
I watched the video, which happened to be made by a Full Sail University student, while in this class, Jennifer Alman. I tried to create an account but cannot since I’m not teaching for a school district. So, I decided to create a name for my school. I’ll be traveling around the country sharing this program with people of all demographics. Since my program is geared for school districts, students and parents, this site allows for teachers, students, and parents to stay up-to-date on assignment schedules, communication, while inside and outside of school. Teachers can also share ideas and information during school hours.
On the home page, the teacher can Edit Dates, Class Bookmarks and even post a thought to the class. The home page shows the teacher and class networks online. The Bookmarks tab gives students links to use and share. The Students tab allows for the teacher to add students and to see entire class list. Important dates is the tab where students can view upcoming class assignments and even school news. The Avatar tab along with the profile allows for students and teacher to create for themselves an animated character, which is a fun thing, into the learning environment. This twiducate has the right components of keeping the students active in technology, while bringing the fun feeling of play during the serious activites in the classroom
I like this site because it has the right idea for me being able to convey how to reach students, by tapping into an “out of school” behavior and bring it to the learning environment. Teachers can pose a topic such as music, culture, and language. Then, the students can post replies. This gives everyone a voice, since all students aren’t comfortable sharing when the spotlight is on them.
I want students to appreciate the knowledge coming from their teachers and respect their teachers, in the process. Teachers must first get to understand what energizes their students. Reaching out to students by using twiducate.com will provide positive results in communication and motivation inside and outside of the classroom.
Nashon - Thanks for your introduction to Twiducate. I really find this classroom based, social networking site very appealing - even for students in upper elementary classrooms. While some of the typical social media sites (like Facebook) aren't appropriate for young students, many 4-5th graders are very familiar with them because of older siblings, parents, etc. I think this site is a neat way to bridge that gap, help the teacher maintain privacy for his/her students, incorporate web 2.0 technology, and promote and home-school communication.
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