journal 2

Breathing Fire into Web 2.0
Co-Authors Justin Hardman and David Carpenter

The article presented by Hardman and Carpenter, represents a new idea and extension of interactive websites. This new idea was first inspired by the need to store several files and useful information in one area and still have it accessible by just one individual or many at the same time. A school in Hong Kong has recently implemented this idea and has created a program titled “myDragonNet”. This program allows students to compile all of their work, creating an online portfolio, keep organized with interactive calendars, blogs with classmates and much more. Hardman, a familiar user of myDragonNet, as well as Carpenter, believe that a program such as this will help students and teachers maintain current knowledge with technology and perhaps encourage its use more often.

Question # 1: What are some possible disadvantages to a program such as myDragonNet?
As a potential teacher for the Oceanside School District, I find a couple of disadvantages to implementing an online site in a classroom. My biggest concern is the availability of computers to all of my students. Because Oceanside, CA, does not have the highest of incomes has many students do not have access to a computer. I feel that requiring students to constantly be in touch with online assignments would be unfair and unrealistic. However, with this problem, there lies a solution. Students could work with the teacher and together write a proposal for computers in the classroom, telling why it is so important and how students in their class as well as others would benefit.

Question # 2: What are some things as a teacher you would want your students to do with myDragonNet?
One of the main uses I would want my students to have with myDragonNet would be an electronic portfolio. I believe an electronic portfolio would help the students always be prepared to show off their hard work if applying for a job. Not only does it allow them to work with computers and become more familiar with different types of communications, but it also allows them to really recognize what they excel in and perhaps things they need to work on.