Blog Post 6

Richard Miller: This Is How We Dream Parts 1 and 2

I would certainly call the concept of multimedia a fundamental change. Multimedia, simply put, is the process of integrating multiple forms of media. Media can be text, graphics, audio, animation, video, data, etc. I think the EDM 310 students are writing with multimedia now; certainly not to the extent of Richard Miller’s presentation, but we are, by definition performing this task.

I was most impressed with the Virginia Tech article created by Richard Miller. He is absolutely correct in that you can research information around the world without ever leaving your home computer. I find that I now use the library as a quiet place to study or write papers - fewer distractions. The true reason in which the library was established is now rarely used; especially among students born during the information age.

Individuals no longer have to write articles and wait for the process of revision, publication etc. People can access this information “now.” Web-based information allows you to access information anytime day or night. We have moved away from a pencil and paper generation as we explore the “riches of the world stored on the web.” Collaboration is possible day or night using internet tools such as Skype. I am definitely prepared to learn more about writing with multimedia, and believe that my students will have already encountered this process to some degree. My job will be to explore the limitless possibilities with them.

Toward A New Future of Whatever

One word…WHATEVER. This video was very interesting and eye-opening. Based on this video it appears that as media evolves so does the conversation and interaction of society; I agree. According to Wesch, people have become self-centered and disengaged. I think people have become consumed with chasing a dream and have forgotten that it’s possible to take someone along as they climb the corporate ladder. Unfortunately I can’t attribute these changes only to television; the internet has also impacted society’s interactions.

In watching this video I pondered this question, have we really become self-involved or are we reverting back to the caveman’s state of mind? Because we have immersed ourselves into the media, have we forgotten what it is like to have an actual conversation with someone in the same room or have we resorted to only being able to speak into a one-eyed contraption? I honestly don’t know how this will impact me as a future educator. Of course technology will be incorporated into my classroom, but I will provide a classroom learning environment that allows students to voice their ideas and opinions; beyond the parameters of YouTube.

The Networked Student by Wendy Drexler

I believe that it is a fantastic idea to incorporate networked learning into the students’ curriculum. As with any major advancement, challenges will come, but the benefits of networked learning should certainly outweigh any obstacles. In my opinion, teachers must remain in the classroom. Teachers facilitate learning, and provide effective feedback.

As an EDM 310 student, I am becoming a networked learner, but I still prefer having access to an onsite professor. As stated in the video, a teacher provides guidance, teaches proper communication skills, prevents unnecessary exposure to unreliable sites, and has background knowledge and experiences in which students can draw upon. It is impossible to obtain these benefits solely from the worldwide web.

Through connectivism, the 21st century student has access to the top subject matter experts around the world which means that they are no longer restricted to the textbook. I do not disagree with this theory. By developing a PLN, the networked student becomes submerged in a world of endless possibilities and begins to develop a sense of ownership and independence. I completely agree with this theory.

However, a classroom teacher’s presence is a crucial component in student advancement because the teacher provides a safe learning environment while directing students in the exploration process. Finally, am I prepared to be a teacher of a networked student? I believe that I am striving to be that teacher, but the reality is…ready or not, here I come!