Journal #3: Navigate the Digital Rapids

Lindsay, J., & Davis, V. (2010, March/April). Navigate the digital rapids. Learning & Leading with Technology, 37(6), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/Content/NavigationMenu/Publications/LL/LLIssues/
Volume3720092010/MarchAprilNo6/Navigate_the_Digital_Rapids.htm doi:
ISSN 1082-5754

In the article " Navigate the Digital Rapids," by Julie Lindsay and Vicki Davis, they describe the complications of teaching digital citizenship when the digital world and standards are rapidly changing. It takes a true digital teacher to be able to customize lessons with their students and their different learning styles, as well as effectively researching the latest technologies that meet the specific standards. They also discuss the the importance of engaging students in their own learning process and being able to monitor their technology use in the classroom. In order for digital teachers to be successful, they need to have a firm plan and consequences for those who don't obey the guidelines, when it comes to using online collaborative and networking sites.

Julie and Vicki, the authors created the Flat Classroom Project, to bring together middle and senior high school students to transform learning through global collaboration. This program will allow one to two classrooms become one large classroom, using Web 2.o tools. Virtually allowing students and teachers to ride safely and successfully through the digital rapids.

Question #1: Is it helpful to participate in the Flat Classroom project?

As a future educator knowledge is power. The more information one can seek on technology and networking sites the better. The student population is continually evolving and for their safety as well as ours it is important to stay current using different resources.

Question #2: Can being to protective of our students and their digital use, lead to negative consequences to an educator?

In the article it is stated that is it important to teach digital citizenship to students starting in kindergarten, that way they are able to practice proper ediquette from the begining. Teachers' are allowed to report what they see and hear while the students are on school grounds. However, when the student are off school property teachers' can find them selves on dangerous grounds leagally if if they try and inerviene with students personal online networking. It is very important that teachers' work properly in deling with tough cyber situations.