Tier 2 - Class Webpage

A primary use of my class Webpage would be as a method of communication for students, parents, and me. The possibilities seem endless. Below I discuss the different ways that a class webpage could be used to facilitate communication.

Grade Level: Social Studies 6-8

ACTION PLAN

  1. Stay Connected–Classroom Communication

Students and parents can use the webpage to access information about class assignments, activities, and up-coming events. If a student is absent, they could access a class agenda link to find out what they missed. Handouts could also be attached for students to download and print at home. As a middle school teacher, I would love to include podcasts of important lectures for students to access whenever they need to. I would also love to include features like links to blogs, chat rooms, and forums where students can interact and seek help when needed.

Issues to address:

  1. Students will need to understand out to access and navigate the internet. They will also need to understand how to utilize the various links on the page. If additional resources are used, they will require additional skills and knowledge. For example, podcasts would require students to utilize a media player.
  2. Providing students with access to a class webpage will allow students to use technology as a communication tool. Incorporating various components like links to other educational sites, podcasts, and calendars will expose them to alternative types of learning. It will also make them part of the online community. Students could also be given the chance to help with the maintenance of the webpage. Each week a Webmaster(s) could be chosen to help with design decisions, keeping information current, etc.
  3. Providing support will be a crucial component of a class webpage. Students may not have access to a computer or the internet at home. I must be sensitive to this and make sure that all students are equipped with the opportunity to use the site. For students who do not have at-home access, students could be given passes to use the lab during lunch or Academic Support. The webpage doesn’t have value if only part of the class can use it.
  4. As stated in number 3, not all students have home computers or internet access. A key disadvantage of a class webpage is that it will not be readily available to everyone. On the other hand, communication through technology serves to reinforce verbal and visual skills. It provides an appealing alternative to students in contrast to the traditional avenues.
  1. Locate External/Additional Resources

There are many reasons that a webpage can be a valuable source of information. As a parent myself, I know that classroom communication does not always reach home. It can be an easy place to include handouts, links to resources and tutorials. In that way it is very similar to communication. I think that it differs in that the resources will not necessarily relate directly or exclusively to assignments. Students will not be required to utilize these. For students who are interested in a particular topic in class, links can be provided so they may further their knowledge.

A link to the textbook can also be provided.

  1. Students will use the webpage to find links they can use to answer questions and expand their knowledge on a subject. Students can do this on their own or in conjunction with activities in class.
  2. Technology will enhance the learning experience by providing additional opportunities for exploration that are student-driven.
  3. Students would need parental support at home in the form of access to the internet and help if needed. Teachers would have to ensure that students are equipped to use the resources provided.
  4. An advantage of a webpage with resources is that students do not need to search for them on their own. The resources included will have been evaluated for their information, appropriateness, and value. It can be overwhelming for students to try to find on their own. I cannot really see a disadvantage except that the students must have access and the motivation to use them.
  1. Classroom Webmaster

Each week a different student would be responsible for helping to maintain the website. During Academic Time (our version of study hall) the student would enter blog posts, update newsletter, etc.

Issue to Address:

  1. Students will be using software programs like MS Word, PowerPoint, Publisher, etc and the internet. They will also exhibit their ability to save, edit, and archivetheir work.
  2. It will supply students with a management system for keeping track of their work and publishing for others to see.
  3. In order to be successful, students would have to have sufficient instruction and practice of the programs involved. It is also important that they understand how to effectively communicate with others.
  4. An advantage of a student webmasteris that students are given an opportunity to apply the technology they learn to use. They are able to experience firsthand how ideas can be realized and shared with others through the use of technology. The only disadvantage I can see is the amount of time I will have to devote to ensuring student fluency with technology, monitoring information posted, and ensuring equal opportunities to serve as webmaster. The first few webmasters can be carefully chosen so that they can help “train” or assist others will alleviate some of this burden. I feel the experience for students far outweighs these factors.

CLASS HOMEPAGE

I used Weebly to create a classroom webpage for several reasons. First, it is a free site and several teachers I know use it for their sites as well. This was important because I wanted to make sure that it had longevity. I didn’t want the site to suddenly be gone when students tried to access it. I also did not want to spend time and energy on a site that would disappear. Second, since several technology teachers already use Weebly, I know that it will not be blocked by the internet filters for district computers. After looking at several other tools, I liked the features that this offered and found it easy to use. Not being extremely tech savvy myself, I was surprised at how easy it was to design and build my site. I was able to include pictures, text, links, and slideshows free of charge. Additional options are available at a minimal cost.

The content of my site is based on a hypothetical future class so I created tabs that I would include. I also assume that I would add additional options based on class curriculum. My site can be found at: