A Little Help From My Friends: Classroom 2.0 Educators Share Their Experiences

Classroom 2.0’s educator network has some “Kool Aid” to share with you

By Steve Hargardon -- School Library Journal, 10/1/2007

Blogs, wikis, podcasting, social networks… it seems the entire world has gone 2.0 crazy. Among the followers are educators, who, in ever increasing numbers, are integrating these online, interactive tools into their classrooms and yes, even libraries.

In these profiles, you’ll meet a few of these ordinary, in-the-trenches folks—just like you—who have taken the plunge, launching blogs, signing on to social networks, and stepping up to the podcast mic in order to create innovative learning opportunities that encourage collaboration as never before. While these innovators range widely in their experience and comfort level with technology, every one’s a part of Classroom 2.0 (classroom20.ning.com), a social network for educators exploring new technologies (see “Class Is in Session,” below). Online, they’ve shared advice, technical know-how, and encouragement in a community where newbies should feel most welcome.

The Profiles:

• Nancy Bosch on Blogs
• Ginger Lewman on Social Networking
• Dr. Tom Stiff, Susan Stiff, Diane Hammond, Dr. Steve MacLean on Blogs
• Carolyn Foote on Wikis
• Lisa Parisi on Podcasts
• Dave Ehrhart on Social Bookmarking
• Barbara Barreda on All

Class Is in Session

“How are you using your smartboard?” “Confessions of a technology leader.” “Twitter?” These sample subject headings give an idea of the conversations going on at Classroom 2.0 (classroom20.ning.com). Launched in March 2007, the social network for educators attracts practitioners who are exploring Web 2.0 and collaborative technologies. From seasoned two-oh heads to first-timers curious to know about this new-fangled thing called blogging, participants get together and mingle online, to pose questions and provide answers, spark debate, and trade information. There’s also a sense of community, where you can come for support, especially for those who feel isolated, as if they’re the only ones in their schools who are trying something new.

While MySpace has given social networks somewhat of a bum rap among grown-ups, Classroom 2.0 is an example of how these groups can function as a virtual watering hole, a professional development tool, and a place where it’s not uncool to say you want to be someone’s friend.

I started Classroom 2.0 as a way to make it easy for educators to dip their toes into the sometimes intimidating waters of interactive technology. Once on the site, you can comment on a forum post or send a message to request information. Or jump right in and start your own discussion. Don’t be surprised, an immediate response is typical of this congenial group. Need more assistance? Check out the section “How to Start” on our home page. I look forward to seeing you in class. {A text-only version of this article is also available.}

Web 2.0 Tool of Choice: Blogs

Web 2.0 Tool of Choice: Social Networking

Web 2.0 Tool of Choice: Blogs

Web 2.0 Tool of Choice: Wikis

Web 2.0 Tool of Choice: Podcasts

Web 2.0 Tool of Choice: Social Bookmarking

Web 2.0 Tool of Choice All