Social Media and 21st Century Learners

Today's learners are Techies!! Lets face it, if I have a problem with my computer or iPad or even iPhone, there's no need for me to reach out and wait for tech support, I have 20 specialists sitting right in my classroom! With this technology come a great amount of responsibility. To incorporate technology into the classroom requires that students understand how to stay safe. This can be applied through all social media outlets as well. Education of students and internet safety begins early. The following is a video put out by Toshiba. Even though it is an ad, this is a great video that can be pulled apart and analyzed by teachers with their students one topic at a time.

Social Media Safety

By educating students on how to utilize technology and social media sites responsibly, students and educators can have FUN!!!

Collaborating across digital media has never been easier. One amazing tool (that can also help you keep all of our thoughts organized) is Pinterest. I use this site like crazy! I have boards after boards of ideas flowing. Two recent tools that I have started researching and subsequently established new connections and boards for is Project Based Learning and STEM projects. Project based learning incorporates real world applications into the classroom. These connections only allow students to create a deeper understanding for the content being presented. Furthermore, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) allows educators to bring together all subjects into one core topic. A wonderful resource can be located at Defined STEM. By setting up for an account, users can browse topics and receive ideas for projects that can be brought back into the classroom. 

Below are two great links for Project Based Learning and STEM sites to find resources and pre-made plans!