Chapter 7 Discussion

It is important for a teacher to be able to successfully interact with his or her students. If it means reaching them through means of technology then so be it, but technology is not a face-to-face interaction and is somewhat lacking in decoding the real meaning behind a student's thoughts or opinions. You are unable to read their facial expressions or body language when communicating via internet or whatever it may be, so a teacher wouldn't really know if what they are saying is something they really thought of on their own. On the other hand, online chats amongst a group of students could help them to recieve constructive critcism from their peers.
The videogame idea is creative and it could work. The article says that it offers design experiences that can impact classroom learning. I think anything that grabs a student's attention has the possibility of being truly effective in a positive way. I wouldn't suggest having students use instant messaging during actual classtime, but maybe as a way of communicating with their peers to get help on an assignment if help is needed. The same goes for podcasts. A teacher should cater to his or he students's needs whether it be through the use of instant messaging, face-to-face communication, or podcasts. Student's learn in an environment that they feel comfortable in.

Brittany Cleere
ETEC 424-02