EDTK 2030

Justify the use of Web 2.0 tools for development of higher order thinking skills (500 words)

Web 2.0 is a World Wide Web site that uses technology beyond the static pages to increase changes in the way web pages are made and use. It allows users to interact and collaborate with each other in a social media dialogue (Wikipedia.org, 2014). Students are given the opportunity to share what they have learnt with the use of technological tools of web 2.0 as these tools gives students more engagement through choice of topics. Web 2.0 calls for a major shift in the way education is provided for children as education should be collaboratively constructed, meaning, that an open atmosphere is created where children can participate and engage in class discussions. Students can take control over their learning which will help them to be successful, however, teachers and parents are worried about the negative outcomes that may derive from using web 2.0 tools such as gossiping, time wasting or engagement in dangerous activities (Wikipedia.org, 2014).

Higher order thinking according to Thorne & Thomas (2014), is the thinking of an individual on a higher level rather than memorizing and restating facts. It requires the individual to understand, infer, connect, categorize, manipulate, put together then apply the facts to seek solutions to new problems. Higher order thinking skills can be learnt and or increase with practice (Thorne & Thomas, 2014). Web 2.0 tools change the way we create, collaborate, edit and share contents online. Some web 2.0 tools are; presentation tools, video tools, mobile tools, community tools and related links (Discovery Education, 2014). For the purpose of this assignment I will show how community tools can be used to develop higher order thinking skills in children.

Community Tools are a set of tools which enables teachers and students to collaborate, communicate and share work with each other. These can be in the form of social networks, wikis and google docs (Discovery Education, 2014). Community tools offers community features which enable users to post and like photos and forums, customize their profile and form unlimited sub-groups. Publishing tools- this gives users access to advance blogging features, add multiple blogs, invite members to co-publish and unlimited custom HTML pages. Social Integration- allows members to sign in via facebook, twitter, linkedin, instagram, integrate youtube with other video sites, it also allow real time aggregated activity feed. Gadgets readiness- this feature allows memebers to create their own mobile app. Custom design and URL- allow members to use their own domain. Privacy control- members are able to appoint multiple administrators, take control of their privacy and choose their anti-spam protection.

Web 2.0 has proven to contribute in the development of higher order thinking skills in children. Instagram is one such social network that give teachers the opportunity to help children learn or increase their higher order thinking skills while interacting with each other through the use of web 2.0 community tools. Teachers can integrate these activities into their curriculm, it can also be used as a form of assessment. You may click on the link provided to see an example of a lesson provided through web 2.0 community tools https://discovery.app.box.com/SOS/1/2649248337/11784709163/1 (Web2.0.14, 2014).

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Discovery Education. (2014). Web 2-0. Retrieved from Discovery Education: Web 2.0: http://web2014.discoveryeducation.com/web20tools-presentation.cfm

Thorne, G., & Thomas, A. (2014). Higher order thinking. Retrieved from Reading Rockets : http://www.readingrockets.org/article/higher-order-thinking

Web2.0.14. (2014, July 23). Instagram. Retrieved from Discovery Education: Web 2.0: http://web2014.discoveryeducation.com/blog/

Wikipedia.org. (2014, November 12). Web 2.0. Retrieved from Wikipedia the free encyclopedia: http//:wikipedia.org/wiki/Web_2.0