Chapter nine delves into the world of social networks, a world that I honestly have no desire to enter. I think that if I were younger I might belong to Facebook, just to keep track of the people I knew in high school, college, and the work place. But at this point in my life I keep in touch with the people who are most important to me. I think that it would take a lot of time to track down the other people I have known, assuming that I can still remember their names! I have not been convinced that there is a place for Facebook in my classroom, especially when other sites abound, that can provide the same service.
Richardson introduces Ning as being similar to Facebook. Instead of focusing on personal relationships, Ning's claim to fame is all about making interest-based connections. Again, I feel that there are plenty of other ways to connect and share information, without resorting to Ning. Another site that is described, ArtSnacks, specializes in forming connections in the world of art.
Richardson, at times comes across as a child in a candy store, wanting all that the internet can offer. I would prefer it if he weren't so over-the-top about each site he introduces. Instead I would rather that he emphasized that, while there are many options, prudence requires that we pick and choose carefully. That way we do not become overwhelmed by our choices. To me it's all about time management and balancing how we fill up our days.
As I read chapter nine I felt the same way, "no desire". I have witnessed a few friendships end due to misunderstandings written on Facebook. I will look at the other sites just to see if they are of value in my classroom but, again I agree that we must sort through all the suggested avenues and pick only a few to use with our students.
ReplyDelete