These are the presentation notes from the NASULGC conference.
Second Life in the Classroom
•May 23, 2008 • Leave a CommentSecond Life has even been adapted for use in the classroom at a number of institutions:
Harvard Law School has found a way to integrate Second Life into their curriculum: see the video here.
Additionally, here’s a handy (and extremely inventive) list of 101 uses for Second Life in the classroom- they include everything from group scavenger hunts to government experiments to astronomical observation.
Mogulus
•May 23, 2008 • Leave a CommentSome point to emerging social networking technology like Mogulus as the wave of the future. The website allows users to start their own 24/7 streaming television station, which can be watched and commented on by all users. The channels range from local news to music to independent coverage of the presidential primaries.
Facebook as a Tool for Campus Organizations
•May 23, 2008 • Leave a CommentFacebook can be a vital networking tool for campus organizations, allowing them to communicate news, events, and ideas within their groups and into the larger community. Below is a series of screenshots for an event that brought in both city and campus involvement: The Lawrence Electronic Recycling Event.
This first screenshot shows vital information and description, as well as my individual RSVP: “maybe” attending.
This second screenshot shows the number of people who have RSVPed as yes, no, or maybe, as well as the “photos” section, in which the event administrator and users can upload images relevant to the event(for example, when famous National Geographic photographer Steve McCurry came to campus, the administrator uploaded samples of his work).
This third screenshot shows the “Wall”, on which users can post questions or comments(it’s frequently also used to explain why people can’t make it), as well as the list of relevant posted items(here, the event’s official city website).
Social Networking: Educational Opportunity or Corporate Exploitation?
•May 23, 2008 • Leave a CommentIn a recent debate in The Economist, Professors X and Y discussed the social effects of e-networking; is it a useful tool for increased individual connectivity and learning or a means by which corporations can train and exploit a new consumer base. See the full debate here.
The Perils of Social Networking & Increased Connectivity
•May 23, 2008 • Leave a CommentThe New York Times discusses(sometimes hilariously) the implications of increased electronic connectivity for higher education: To: Professor@University.edu Subject: Why It’s All About Me
Twitter In The Classroom
•May 23, 2008 • Leave a CommentTwitter is a micro-blogging service, one that allows users to dash off short(140 words or less) posts that are distributed to a group of subscribers via email or text message. Twitter’s applications in the classroom may seem limited, but Texis A &M Professor David Parry thinks it has the potential to be a useful and revolutionary tool, expanding the role of teacher outside of classroom hours. Check out his full recommendations, which include using Twitter to send homework reminders.
