Blog #6- Internet use in the elementary classroom

There are definitely two sides to the idea of using the internet in the classroom. A couple obvious cons include the risk of children coming across inappropriate sites, unexpected technical problems, and the expense for having the computers and internet in the classroom. However there are benefits as well, such as being a good research tool for older children, and also a way to show the class images/articles/movie clips that go well with a lesson. It can be a great way to really get a concept through to those many visual learners out there. There's also lots of software and online learning activities and games for students to use that can help them.

I would probably use the internet more for finding lesson plan ideas and assistance though, rather then having the students use the computers too often independently. Again though, sometimes I would allow them to use it for research and also the learning activities found online; perhaps as a 'center' type of activity, or something to be done if a student finishes early with an assignment the others are still working on. Its a great tool, but at such a young age, I would want to make sure to not over-do the internet usage.

My favorite education website so far is probably "Education World". I really like all the lesson plan ideas it has, and how it has so many options on how to search for them. It also has many more features, including specific, large sections for specific parts in education, like professional development, technology integration, school issues, and more. Is really is loaded with lots of great information that teachers and administrators can use. It's also very easy to navigate through and lets you know what the newest items in each section are. I'll definitely use this one as a teacher!