Catch You on the Flippity Flip!

This second reflection is going to detail the numerous ideas that I took away from our discussions and how it influences my outlook on Social Media in the classroom!

First, the FlipGrid! Although I am primarily ELA, I will also be endorsing in math. As such, I was curious as to how I could incorporate this tool in my class. ELA seemed like a given: I could use FlipGrid for book talks, poetry reading, analysis, performances, etc. Math was a bit trickier. At least, until you suggested that students talk me through their steps in problem solving! Going through math classes, I hated repetition of problems for the sake of repetition. This idea of using FlipGrid for one or two problems is a great one! The more I think about the work force that students will enter into, all the tech companies that exist, and the presence of video platforms like Youtube, the more I love the idea of using video as a way for students to demonstrate their knowledge and thinking process. It also would be a great way for me to model what an effective video looks like and the creative process behind developing a successful video.

One resource (besides Youtube) that I know of, and which reflects the idea of video-based learning and expression of knowledge, is Skillshare.com ! Like their site says, "Skillshare is an online learning community with thousands of classes in design, business, tech, and more. Anyone can join the millions of members in our community to learn cutting-edge skills, network with peers and discover new opportunities." People are getting paid to teach on this site, much like a successful "Youtuber" would be. This is just one example in a whole plethora of online tools where video is a means of living. What I think is important to remember, especially as an ELA teacher, is that behind all of these videos and online tools was a writing process. Creating, scripting, recording, editing, publishing, advertising: all require a form and knowledge of literacy skills! Why not use these platforms to engage students in a writing process, with literacy and communication skills, that they will realistically use after graduation?

Another idea I heard and which branches off of my last one is the idea of using sites to practice forms of writing. Specifically, Amazon and writing an Amazon book review was linked to the ELA standard of persuasive writing! This idea, like others mentioned, brings me back to the importance of teaching students in such a way that they are realistically prepared for the world outside of school. Whether writing an amazon review, creating a Youtube video that informs viewers on a subject, or scripting a podcast that tells a narrative, students can engage in the literacy skills they need to, but through a technologically relevant medium!

I think this last idea is related to the idea of Social Media. If I can engage students in a creative, healthy, and literacy-rich online presence using tools like blogs and videos, then not only can I help them to navigate such powerful tools through the process of creation, but I can help them apply ELA content to a tangible and relatable medium. Students may not envision themselves as authors of paperback books, but they could see themselves as a blogger, a Youtuber, or a podcaster, or anyone else in this creative process. What ever their passion or vision, I bet that it will involve technology, so by giving them tools early on I can help them in their journey.