The internet isn’t as dangerous as people think it is, with parents help it can be a pleasure to use for all.Students using web 2.0 tools are at a great advantage as it teaches them to work together collaboratively within the classroom with their fellow peers and teacher. Parents are unaware of this technological shift and sometimes its their children that update them about these new advances.Educators within schools should take it upon themselves to venture out into the world and find what is on the internet, it will truly amaze you. Effectively engaging students with school work that can be done using these web2.0 tools will shed a whole different light on the way the students see their school work.Parents on the other hand are often nagging students asking them if they have completed their homework and to get off the computer and start doing some writing, when in fact they are on the computer working on their blog for homework or working on a wiki to be able to work collaboratively with other students within their class. We do have teachers in our schools who are exploring right alongside me, and others who can see the power of Web 2.0 for blending learning experiences with global education and business contacts. But you are right - it is a big shift for educators to jump into social networking. The tools are definitely no longer fads - they ARE our kids, and they are their future…..here and now!JUDY O’CONNELL

September 12th, 2007  

 http://search.ebscohost.com.ipacez.nd.edu.au/login.aspx?direct=true&db=aph&AN=5028426&site=ehost-liveThis paper serves as the introduction to a collection of 8 projects and a commentary seeking to understand and promote complex learning using technology. Selective evidence on the current state of technology for learning in schools is summarized along with numerous recommendations. Key issues associated with the uses of technology to promote complex and active learning are highlighted. It is argued that accessibility and interactivity with the material and other learners are important features which influence the underlying motivational and cognitive processes which affect complex learning using technology. The nature of cooperative learning is briefly summarized emphasizing positive interdependence and individual accountability as means to promote peer interaction. Fourteen learner-centered psychological principles are listed under several headings: cognitive and met cognitive, motivational and affective, developmental and social, and individual difference factors influencing learners and learning. Finally, key issues in the technology integration process are discussed: creating the school vision, taking stock, partnerships, professional development, implementation, and review.ReflectionsThe article shows how technology supports collaborative learning within the classroom and how it supports the individual in learning and most importantly learning effectively. This in turn will enable students to be self learners which is important. In describing the importance of psychology on technology and learning the author also suggested lifelong learners, whether inside or outside the classroom, self-regulate their own learning. Such is an interesting point as it shows that learners will engage with the learning task cognitively, metacognitvely and motivationally. Overall it makes a clear point of how technology plays an important role in the process by enhancing students interactively with the material to be learnt.