Web 2.0 Tools in the Classroom

How can Web 2.0 tools be used in the classroom? Wow-what a vast question! I should start from the beginning and admit that as little as a week ago I had no idea what Web 2.0 referred to. Luckily, my horizons have since broadened and I now realize just how much this sharing of the web covers. Web 2.0 refers to tools that enable users to interact with each other using the internet. These tools include Wikipidia, wikis, blogs, Flickr, Skype, MySpace, Facebook, podcasts and more.As an early elementary school teacher I will have the exciting opportunity to introduce and expand my students understandings of many of these tools. I am interested in creating an online classroom community, where my students can practice both their writing and reading skills in a cooperative way. I envision a class blog where students are free to transpose their writing workshops onto the web. Together we well design the blog, including our own artwork to accompany our thoughts. This blog will be a great way to strengthen students reading and writing skills through the incorporation of technology.