The future of Web 2.0 in society and in education is already here. I agree with Ivo Jansch in his post about Web 2.0, that this "Web 2.0 thing" is about more than terminology and semantics -- the Web 2.0 is about the collaborative, creative uses of technologies that already exist. People argue that Web 2.o is an inaccurate name, but does that really matter? I think what matters is that people find the best ways to use this technology, especially in education.
Web 2.o technology in schools has both more obstacles and more benefits than in general society. Educators must be aware of the increased safety issues that are brought up with this more collaborative, exposed nature of Web 2.0 so that students can be taught to be appropriate, responsible, and productive Web 2.o users. Educators also must educate parents and other community stakeholders (and perhaps, themselves!) on Web 2.0 technologies and internet safety, so that they can understand why using these technologies is so important for students. Even though there are these obstacles, using Web 2.0 technologies in schools should not and must not be avoided in schools. This collaboration is a vital 21st century skill, and if students are taught to be effective collaborators in the school setting, they will be that much more prepared for what lies ahead for them in the future.
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