When I discussed what defines a web 2.0, I referenced a series of benchmarks. Two of the benchmarks for a web 2.0 tool are continuous improvement and ability to interface with other tools. Twitter definitely meets these benchmarks as it continues to evolve based on the user.
After a few months of use, I have caught on to the basics of tweeting, retweeting, replying, and direct messaging. I knew about the '#', but I didn't really know how to use it effectively or all of its capabilities. (If you don't know what the '#' is, head over to Read Write Web blog for a great explanation.)
Through reading the Read Write Web blog entry on new Twitter features, I learned how to search for items of interest using Twitter Search or #hastags and the '#' tag. I (finally) figured out how to find out what all the '#' tags meant using Tagulus. Now if I want to know about the buzz from a conference or the thoughts a new headline, I can search through Tagulus for the '#' tag that corresponds to the information I am looking for on Twitter. I can also make-up my own '#' tags and share their purpose with other Tweeters.
Just think, you could have your own '#' tag for each class you teach and tweet out homework, insteresting links, or facilitate converstions between your students.
I have also updated the Teach Web 2.0 wiki with all this great new information.
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I am really enjoying all the resources everyone is sharing. Is Twitter something you would consider using in your classroom? If using for K-12, what are the issues with safety, etc. I am looking forward to redesigning my courses and integrating more of the tools I am learning about.
ReplyDeleteAt this point I don't think it something I would have my students use. However, I would consider creating a # tag for my classroom for parents to use. I think of it more as a tool for my own personal development. I learn about so many new ideas, articles, resoruces, webinars, and tools through following other educational technology and elementary teachers.
ReplyDeleteKirsten -
ReplyDeleteI just found this resource about using Twitter in the classroom (http://docs.google.com/Present?docid=dhn2vcv5_118cfb8msf8). I thought you might be interested in reading it.