Over the course of this Blog, I have explored the merit of using this new technology and its application in education. My research clearly suggests that Bebo should be used in a positive manner to promote E-Learning. As stated by Wilson (2001) “To take on a meaningful role, online educational resources must become easy to use, effective and contribute significantly to students’ learning” (p.1). Therefore it is up to educationalists to stop ignoring social networks and instead use them to promote internet safety and positive E-Learning.
Bebo and similar sites continue to grow and become established strands of information technology. Through this valuable learning medium, Bebo students are now able to explore a variety of media. By creating their own personal profile, they are able to add images, video clips and upload music that is of interest to them. They also can create ‘widgets’ that will demonstrate their unique interests and thought patterns.
Using this interesting and unique technology, schools could use Bebo as a base for key learning where classrooms interconnect with each other. Through online discussions, students could share information needed for a particular subject or create blogs and polls in relation to a current topic they are investigating. The teacher would be able to monitor each page to ensure that effective leaning is taking place and guide them when necessary so that they take full advantage of the processes.
The importance of technological practice is supported by Guhlin (2007) where he states, “The more children are encouraged to expand their digital repertoire, the more adept they become at using tools for different purposes” (p.4). This bold statement outlines how using social networks such as Bebo can have a great effect on all children as they become familiar with using a variety of technology in a number of different contexts.
It is acknowledged there are many negative affects of social interfaces such as Bebo. Due to the naive nature of children there have been some unfortunate examples of negative experiences using Bebo. However due to this growing concern from parents and the general public, strategies are being put in place to enhance the security of children and protect them from potentially harmful elements. Bebo has established a link that promotes interest safety and outlines how users can protect their identities (see Must See Links blog entry).
Even though the internet does have negative capability, a set protocol for students could eliminate potential problems. Many activities that children undertake are potentially dangerous and the internet in the modern world is no exception. Instead of blocking the use of these sites, teachers have a real opportunity to discuss their use and provide guidelines that can offer a blueprint for its use. An example of how teachers can enhance children’s skills would be to get them to create a movie that promotes internet safety and how to use Bebo positively.
One constraint in the wide application of E-Learning and Bebo in particular is the reluctance of some educationalists to embrace our technological society. A positive attitude toward E-Learning is a good indicator of whether a teacher will promote E-Learning in the classroom. If teachers are not computer literate they may find it difficult to teach their students the value of technology, including Bebo. It is more common for a student to be more technologically advanced than their teacher and this is a valuable opportunity to get students to become independent thinkers and pass on their accumulated knowledge.
In summary, Bebo is an exceptional way to enhance students’ technological and social skills. By using different forms of media, such as images, video and widgets discussed in this blog, students learn that their digital world is an informative and exciting one.
Even though students have adapted to digital learning with ease this does not mean that technology should dominate education. There needs to be a balance between virtual and real time learning. Online learning should be seen as an integral part of daily activities, not a separate component. If students are able to learn through networks that are of interest to them, not only will they enhance their technological skills they will be better prepared for the technological society of the future.
"You can teach a student a lesson for a day; but if you can teach him to learn by creating curiosity, he will continue the learning process as long as he lives."
Clay P. Bedford
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