http://www.edutopia.org/extracurricular-learning

This link is worthy of attention for a variety of reasons. Edutopia.org is a worthwhile resource because of its relevant articles related to both the use of technology and teaching. After reading the article, the following quotes made me reflect on my own practice with technology and how I should be much more aware of my students interests and abilities. Consider the following ideas:

- “look at settings like game play or online discussions, where kids are doing things on their own terms”
- “when they’re given the means to communicate over the Internet or cell phones or whatever channels adults don’t have surveillance over, they use them a lot”
- provides an opportunity for kids to clarify things and ask questions about the material (that they may not have the courage to do in class)
- bring popular culture into the educational context (likely to hook children in quickly)
- kids are allowed to bring their interest and expertise from popular culture into the curriculum (turns the students into educational leaders, allowing them to direct their own education)

Questions to ponder:

1) Can we “trust” our students to teach themselves?

2) What do we do with students who do not have access to technology?

3) Will the use of technology be a sustainable practice?

4) How do we filter the computers so that students are “plugged” into educational activities and not games and chat centers?