Struggling with Web 2.0 Technologies

Research shows that integrating technology into the teaching of reading has the potential to improve key literacy components such as decoding, fluency, comprehension and vocabulary. it can also be used to assist in developing writing skills, motivation as well as reading assessment. I thought that I had some basic computer skills but this course made me realise that whatever little skills I have is outdated and there is a whole new World Wide Web available in the form of Web 2.0 technologies which include word processors, blogs, concept mapping software, wikis and podcasts.

I realise that I have to schedule a lot of time to use these technologies in order to effectively integrate technology integration and reading instruction and so assist adolescent readers in developing their reading and writing skills. Some of the web 2.0 technologies seem confusing. For example, I was unsure of the difference between a podcast and a blog. I "googled" it and realised that the essential difference is that a blog is read and a podcast is listened to. I hope this sheds some light to my peers who are in a like position as I am. I know now exactly how a struggling learner feels: I dread when Tuesdays arrive when I have classes, (they seem to come by so quickly); I feel anxious because I do not feel up to date; when I hear others speak in class I feel lost sometimes.

Now that the vacation is here, I know that I have a lot of catching up to do, I am a bit overwhelmed but I hope with the assistance of my tutor and my peers, I will be able to achieve the objectives of this course.