When I started teaching a mere 34 years ago, the most advanced tech device for use in the classroom was an Overhead Projector.  This device was great for its day, but was very limited in how you could use it as a teaching tool.  Even televisions were still at a premium and at my first school there were two to be shared among eight classes.  There was a slow progression until the cost of computers came down and ready access was available to the internet. Computers and access to the internet have been invaluable tools in classes where I've taught adults with disabilities and the literacy and numeracy classes with youth, adults and ESL learners.  Your students are using computers and mobile phones to connect, why not fully utilise a learning tool that most students have in their pocket or purse.

The Power Of Connecting
I recently had lunch with past students from my adult/youth/ESL class and was blown away by one student who had taken social media to heart. He was a reluctant participant, at first, in the computer classes I delivered, but developed his skills and became reasonably proficient at using Word and writing emails.  This basic knowledge has now enabled him to create a Facebook page and use it prolifically.  He has  upgraded to an iPhone and downloads and uses a variety of APPS.  These APPS are mainly games played among a group of friends, but the point here is, he is using social media to connect with others and create a social media platform for developing skills and be involved in life long learning.  Read More...