Introduction to Social Networking, Collaboration, and Web 2.0 Tools

Lara Lomicka & Gillian LordPresented By: Annie Graebner

12 April 2010

Web 2.0

What is it? New ways to use the internet – “enhance creativity,

communications, secure information sharing, collaboration and functionality”

Represents “changes in the ways software developers and end-users utilize the Web”

“An attitude, not a technology” (O'Reilly, 2005) Social interaction – changing the Web

Web 2.0 (2.0)

What is it? (cnt'd) Examples from Web 2.0: blogs, wikis, podcasts,

tagging Stresses open applications and services Not “new” – components have existed for years Attitude, rather than technology But still, no real agreement on exact meaning

“[E]ven though technological tools may be widespread and accepted, that does not necessarily mean they are effective or

valuable in educational contexts.” (p. 9)

Can you think of an exampleof this? What are some

challenges associated withthis concept, and how can teachers deal with them?

Language Learning & Teachingwith Web 2.0

Solid base of research needed Different stages of research for new technologies:

Pilot studies, potential benefits/drawbacks, anecdotal accounts, student perspectives

Principal dimensions of learner experience: “collaboration, publication (both social), literacy,

and inquiry (cognitive)” Use of Web 2.0 requires assessment changes as well

What problems exist with traditional classroom methods of language

teaching, and how can Web 2.0 tools help solve them? What problems might Web 2.0 tools

create in this context?

Thanks!