Social Networking Tool and Virtual Environments

My experience with Twitter has completely changed my view of the social network world.
Originally, I thought it was just another version of Facebook or Myspace where the user updates
his/her status. Negative views on the social networking tool began to emerge when I noticed
colleagues, friends, and students become so engulfed in sharing their most minute activity of the
day. I saw it as a breeding ground for narcissism where everyone tried to out due one another
not to mention the constant bickering and bashing of individuals with a difference of opinion .
There appeared to be no academic value in utilizing this tool. What I didnt know was the power
Twitter possessed in connecting me on a global scale with like-minded professionals. Being able
to receive and share quality information has created an excellent environment for digital support
and professional development.
LinkedIn was one social networking tool that I chose to investigate this week. It is mainly used
for professional networking and users can create a profile for free. The platform is similar to
Twitter as it provides users with the ability to share an update, upload photos, and publish a post.
There are two noticeable differences. LinkedIn users have the option to follow things of
interest and build their PLN by connecting with members. It also gives an individual the
ability to search and apply for jobs within their professional network. I would more than likely
use this Web 2.0 tool to collaborate and share information like Twitter.

The final Web 2.0 tools I investigated were Google Tour Builder and Webkinz. They are both
classified as virtual environments. Solomon and Schrum (2014) stated that MUVEs are most
effective in supporting learning when embedded in ongoing instruction (pg. 181). With this in
mind, Ive made use of the Google Tour Builder and constructed an interactive map of the
Boston Marathon for my physical education classes. Students will now being able to explore the
path of runners and learn about historical sites passed on the way to Copley Square in downtown
Boston. I hope the digital experience will inspire learners to live a more physically active
lifestyle and remove negative views about running.

Webkinz is an interactive virtual environment where users develop responsibility and learn how
to care for a pet avatar. This Web 2.0 tool could be integrated into health lessons when covering
material on Maslows Hierarchy of Needs. However, I dont see myself using Webkinz at the
high school level. A virtual environment without all the gaming features would be more age
appropriate.

Digital Divide
The digital divide has been described as a growing gap among student sub-groups that lack
access to computer and internet use. In 2000, a survey was conducted by the National
Telecommunications and Information Administration in which findings revealed that Caucasian
and Asian American/Pacific Islanders had a significantly higher rate of internet access from their
homes than African Americans and Latinos. Many schools systems have tried to combat the
digital divide by adding more computers and expanding wireless internet access throughout their
buildings. The question remains whether there are any other factors that contribute to the
achievement gap. Currently, there is little consideration as to the impact of high level instruction
with technology integration. Gorski (2005) identified three disparities that contribute to the
growing gap in modern day education: [1]lack of computer and internet access, [2]gaps in access
to support and encouragement to recognize technology-related fields as viable and attainable
educational and professional pursuits, and [3] lack of access to educational experiences that
incorporate technologies in progressive and pedagogically sounds ways (pg. 9).

Over the last ten years, the Parkview High School student body has seen a tremendous shift in
demographics. The minority has now become the majority and learners come from various
socioeconomic backgrounds. One strategy that Parkview has taken to ensure equitable access to
digital tools and resources has been the implementation of the Bring Your Own Device (B.O.Y.D)
initiative and the launch of the eClass platform. Departments within the school are expected to
integrate the use of technology into the learning and teaching activities as a natural part of the
school curriculum. Students are also encouraged to bring their mobile devices into the classroom
and use them as supplemental learning aids.
At Parkview, the present digital divide resides in the manner instructors are implementing
research-based instructional practices and creating authentic learning experiences through
eClass. The platform was intended to promote academic success through the use of blended
learning to meet the needs of individual learners. However, inconsistencies do exist in its use.
There arent enough instructors utilizing the new technology to create student-centered activities
which help develop higher-order thinking skills. Instructors who still use direct-instruction
practices do not acknowledge that they are contributing to minimizing students access to
technology and application of technological skills. As a technology leader, my strategy would be
providing teachers with adequate professional development opportunities that focus on creating
engaging lessons. Instructional team meetings would also be introduced to generate
collaboration and on-going support among peers.
Resources:
Google Tour Builder. tourbuilder.withgoogle.com
Gorski, P. (2005). Education equity and the digital. AACE Journal, 13(1), pg. 3-45.
Solomon, G. & Schrum, L. (2014). Web 2.0 How-to for Educators, Second Edition. Eugene, OR:
International Society for Technology.
Webkinz- www.webkinz.com/