Week 3 - Google Sites

What:
In class we learned how to put together our classroom website including everything from classroom calender, announcements, homework to classroom tools. We did the project as a class (which was extremely helpful because I might not have figured it out otherwise).

So What:
Well, let me tell you I think websites are amazing (this is from my student experiences). I love when my professors have websites because it helps me be even more organized. There are literally very few excuses for not keeping pace when you have access to classroom materials and calenders 24 hours a day almost anywhere. I have had several instances where I needed a classroom website for homework deadlines, assignment rubrics, reading materials, reading assignments, etc. The list for my personal benefits from class websites could go on forever... I really think they are an unquestionable asset for student sanity!

Now What:
Considering my own positive experience with class websites, I would be completely stupid not to implement one in my own classroom. Not only can students use it as an organizational tool, but parents can also see what is happening in the classroom. Thinking of the possibilities, I would love to have two other pages in my classroom website: one for grades, and another for assignment instruction for major projects. I have used both of these as a student and they helped tremendously -- there is nothing worse than starting a project that is due the next day and being confused or forgetting what is required.


Movie Post:
Funny, because in my Methods class we were discussing how all the new technology has degraded language. I guess as an English major I am always a skeptic at some of the new technology and how it changes our language, but most English fanatics will say that texting has ruined the beauty of words.
I was impressed by the video, because it offered possibilities that I would never had ventured into... but now, I am curious and already concocting how to use cellphones in class. Really, I had never thought that cellphones might be proactive as learning material, can't wait to figure something out.