Journal #4 (NETS-T 3,4,5)

Ormiston, M. (2010, December 01). It's time to trust teachers with the internet: a conversation with meg ormiston. Retrieved from http://thejournal.com/articles/2010/12/01/its-time-to-trust-teachers-with-the-internet-a-conversation-with-meg-ormiston.aspx?sc_lang=en

Summary:
This article discusses the difficulties that teachers face using digital tools in the classroom when there are Internet filters in place that block so many useful sites. District filters are often installed and run at default settings, meaning they block all social media as well as pornography. But a lot of sites fall under the social media category are are then not able to be utilized by the class. It is also mentioned how it is difficult for the teacher to try and get a website off the blocked list, because speaking with the IT department is often difficult, and speaking with an administrator does not always work because they will rely on the IT departments opinion.

Question 1: How could you convince an uninformed administrator about the values of a specific site?
I think if you were able to present visual evidence of a sites value, it would go a long way in convincing the administrator to unblock it. I know it could be difficult to show them a site that is blocked, but it would be possible to explore the site on a personal computer, and print out screenshots to illustrate how it works. I think these visual tools, coupled with a well explained lesson plan idea could persuade the administrator to help you with your goal.

Question 2: How can we ensure that an unblocked site like youtube.com is used appropriately?

If youtube were to be unblocked, I know the temptation would be there for students to look up the latest viral video or browse around for content that didn’t relate to the class. But I think if you set up established rules before hand, and use these tools with the students, instead of just letting them go at it on their own, then you can set a paradigm of responsible usage. With supervision and consequences for misuse, I think that you can help the students to stay responsible.