Fast+Lane


 * Title of course:**

Class in the Fast Lane with Web 2.0 Tools


 * Course Description:**

Participants in this course will use and extend their prior knowledge of using technology skills in the classroom to develop at least three different technology-enhanced instructional activities. Examples include wiki, podcast, and blog projects. The use of appropriate software programs and Internet resources will be encouraged and supported by the instructor as participants create instructional materials to accomplish the activities. A lesson plan citing the use of one or more of these new tools will be developed and presented to the class. Pennsylvania Academic Standards being met will be a required component of the plans.

Participants must have a working knowledge of computer basics.


 * Course Outline:**

Session One
 * 1) A. Share the goals and expectations of the course
 * 2) B. Explanation of hardware and software available for participant use
 * 3) C. Sharing of examples of wikis, podcasts, and blogs used in lesson plans successfully in the classroom
 * 4) D. Begin identifying the instructional materials that will be created/enhanced by clearly stating the purposes and goals, topic area(s) to be included, information needed, and timeline required
 * 5) E. Identify wikis and resources available.

__Outside Assignment__: Read the article Wild About Wikis by David Jakes. Be sure to view several of the Eleven Wikis to Watch. Be prepared to discuss your reaction to how wikis are being used in education.

Session Two
 * 1) A. Share perspectives on wikis after completing the outside assignment from Session One.
 * 2) B. Continue to discuss wikis, view resources and show examples.
 * 3) C. Participate in an educational wiki.
 * 4) D. Identify what a podcast is and how they are used in education.

__Outside Assignment:__ Read the article Podcasting: Hear What the Buzz is all About. From the resource list provided in class, find a subject-specific podcast that could be adapted for use in the classroom. Draft an activity using this podcast.

Session Three
 * 1) A. Share Session Two Outside Assignment activity for podcasting. Provide feedback.
 * 2) B. View various examples of educational podcasts, resources, tutorials, and how to create tips
 * 3) C. Discuss how they can be incorporated in the classroom
 * 4) D. Present information on blogs.

__Outside Assignment:__ After reading the article “What is a Blog?” go online and search for educational blogs. Read several entries made by educators and responses to the entries. Be prepared for a discussion on the pros and cons of blogging in education.

Session Four
 * 1) A. Share Session Three Outside Assignment activity and discuss the pros and cons of blogging.
 * 2) B. View various examples of educational blogs, resources, and how to create a blog
 * 3) C. Share additional resources for wikis, podcasts, and blogs.

__Outside Assignment:__ Select one of the presented Web 2.0 tools and create a lesson plan using that tool. Try to select a lesson already in place where this tool will enhance how students interact with the content. Be prepared to share the lesson plan with the class.

Session Five
 * 1) A. Share Session Four Outside Assignment’s lesson plan. Provide feedback.
 * 2) B. Allow individual research time.
 * 3) C. Evaluate and review the Web 2.0 tools discussed.
 * 4) D. Final Question & Answer Period
 * 5) **E.** Follow-up opportunities, completion of necessary forms

Teachers, through district surveys, conversations, and written requests, are in need of structured time to learn about the many resources available for using Web 2.0 tools. It is important to offer a course that provides the opportunity for teachers to collaborate and share ideas across their curriculums and to develop lessons and activities that can further enhance student learning.
 * Statement of Need**


 * List of Competencies to be Developed**

1. Participants will be able to discuss and develop activities using Web 2.0 tools. 2. Participants will be able to integrate the use of technology to create student-centered activities. 3. Participants will be able to find resources to create supporting materials for their curriculum.


 * Means of Developing Competencies**
 * 1) Presentation/Demonstration by instructor and participants when appropriate
 * 2) Hands-on use of equipment by participants independently.
 * 3) Group evaluation of units of study relevant to technology.
 * 4) Presentation of materials to classmates


 * Describe the performance standards and assessment methods used in an evaluation of the competencies achieved by the participants**


 * 1) 1. Participants will be evaluated on their participation in class discussions and activities.
 * 2) 2. Participants will complete all of the outside assignments.