A little more than 5 years ago, Web 2.0 was the new buzzword. Time Magazine named "you" the person of the year thanks to the prominence of Web 2.0. At first I found it intriguing and odd how a growing fad could mean so much in the years that came. People sharing their stories, insights and opinions. They are not just a small minority of journalist or specialist, but regular people who have access to the internet. A growing number of sites are user generated. And then something interesting happened, the internet bloomed to a new level where educator should consider of bringing the model into the classroom.
There is an unsettling issue in several courses, in particular those which requires critical thinking to solve problems such as math. The linearity of teaching creates a negative impact against students' learning. Several educators discuss or write about this issue. Students must recognize that there are more than one way solve a problem and shouldn't be restricted by a linear solution. With the internet allowing students to post and explain how to solve problems or a complicated topic. The additional layer of information can make a difference for students who are struggling.
Furthermore, educators can be part of the Web 2.0. They can share their lesson plans, pedagogy and slides. There are several sites that allow teachers to share it. Some of them can cater a very specific audience who would want a particular file and not just a power point slide (like a slide for smart boards). These sites become a valuable resource for new teachers and can assist them.
Finally, the new web enables the classroom to become a conversation between the teachers and the students. As one blogger points out, this truly opens the floodgate. Students can ask questions and discuss about some matter outside of the classroom without stalling it. And teachers can have a better glimpse on how well they are learning and understanding the knowledge. This very informal way of assessing the students can be a very strong tool for educators. They can adjust lesson plans accordingly to make sure that the students are not confused even further.
Web 2.0 isn't just a buzzword or a trend; it has grown into a norm for the internet. And it is something that most new educators should embrace.
