Professional Reading Assignment # 2: Web 2.0 and 3.0 Tools

Background Information:

Instructional Design/Technology blog written by a graduate student explaining Web 2.0 and 3.0 tools: http://diaryofanelearner.com/2013/04/10/web-2-0-vs-web-3-0-what-really-is-the-difference/ (student/educator perspective)

More detailed definitions: http://www.practicalecommerce.com/articles/464-articles464-Basic-Definitions-Web-1-0-Web-2-0-Web-3-0 (business perspective)

Article: Embracing Web 2.0 and 3.0 tools to support lifelong learning—Let learners connect

Article Link: http://ac.els-cdn.com/S1877042812012840/1-s2.0-S1877042812012840-main.pdf?_tid=db0b722e-2492-11e3-9b72-00000aacb360&acdnat=1379970071_7db72d51a72c6470e98b2e1e78a51c2f

Article Summary: The article is written from a European perspective, but exhibits and voices parallel concerns similar to those involved in the US educational infrastructure.  The writer makes the correlation between Web 2.0 and 3.0 tools and how they are changing the face of education; especially how student are acquiring knowledge.  This idea of democratization of information makes traditional learning appear stale and outdated, but the writer recognizes the importance of students mastering “soft skills” before managing and exploring e-skills properly.  One section of the article, focuses on how we, as a society present jobs in the STEM arena.  Most of these jobs are not highly desired; especially for women, but are readily available.  Teachers and parents play a key role in changing the views of STEM professions and how we present these fields to our students and children.  The writer also makes a claim, that helping students hone their skills in needed areas with web 2.0 and 3.0 tools, will possibly create lifelong learners.

Question 1: If we are resistant to changing technology, its uses, and its benefits; how can this negatively impact our students and children?

Question 2: How have you successfully incorporated web 2.0 and/or 3.0 tools into your educational environment?  Please share any unsuccessful stories as well (reflective practice).

Question 3:  Do you feel our program is adequately preparing us to be 21^st Century educators?  How would you “sell” our graduate program to a prospective student?