To Website, or Not to Website!

This week, we (my tutorial class and I) were asked to create a website to endeavour to expand our ICT horizons. I was one of the previously uninitiated and had no clue as to what I was getting myself into. Until I had done my readings for my ICT class, I believed that one needed to know codes and algorithms (A++, Linux and the like!) in order to successfully navigate my way around to creating a website. But, I have since been informed, times have changed!! It took me a grand total of half an hour to set up my website (and that included making it look pretty!). ‘If it is this easy, why didn’t I try it before’, I pondered. I suppose, as is the reason for most things, I feared the unknown (maybe ‘fear’ is too stronger a word. ‘I am lazy’ is probably a better answer!). But the fear is felt by many older individuals (both teachers and in the wider community) who did not grow up with a computer in their household, and hence, have the opportunity to explore the internet world. Is using webpages as a tool for education really such a bad thing? Will it further or hinder the educational experience of our students?

The strength of online learning lies in the massive amount (both educational and not so educational) of information that can be found on the internet- although sources must be checked thoroughly! Also the ability to learn anywhere at any time and any pace (University of Illinois, 2010)! Students, no matter what race, religion, age or gender are less pronounced, leaving less room for stereotypes, so students can freely express (within reason!) opinions and, hopefully, contribute in a rational and logical manner to forums and other such mediums.

However, computers are not the most reliable of things and are sometimes inclined to do the opposite of exactly what you want them to- particularly when you are trying to reach a deadline! Also, not everyone is at the same level of competency when it comes to the use of computers. This is why we must begin the education of the general public, not just in schools, in new technologies. As my aim is to become a Primary/State/Prep Teacher, I would develop activities on my class website that encouraged parents to get involved in their child’s learning journey! We must also take into account that some students may know far more than the teacher/facilitator of the website (be careful of hackers!). This can cause frustration for some students and boredom may set in. Hence, Teachers must try to keep up to date with technology.

To conclude; Yes! Computers and websites are absolutely wonderful when they are working, but always have a Plan B!!!!