Employing Internet and Networking in the 21st Century Classroom Essay

The Internet can bring the virtual world into the walls of the classroom, thus exp wholenessntially increasing the intimacy base available for practical use in instruction and learning (Kumari, 1998, p. 365). The use of the internet and online collaboration are skills that are important to employment opportunities and for fibre of life (McManus, 2000). Regardless of the individual students future profession, the twenty-first century job market requires the ability to apply internet, collaborative, and networking skills. According to Barbara McManus, in her article Creative training with Internet Technology, internet skills are best learned when applied across a varied curriculum, including reading, writing, or mathematics (2000).Teaching ToolThe internet can be applied to the curriculum in many ways, including research, publishing, and virtual interactions. Although the internet is not always the most appropriate teaching tool, in many scenarios it can supplement and enhance a s tandard lesson (Educational Broadcasting Corporation). Research, publishing, and virtual interactions via the internet can provide authentic, real-world learning experiences for learners.Researching essays, papers, and projects via the internet allows students to put on a plethora of different viewpoints, primary source documents, and conduct original research to apply to a topic (McManus, 2000). According to Dr. Siva Kumari (1998), the internet has quickly changed the way students and teachers interact with texts and research. The Educational Broadcasting Corporation asserts that the Internet allows students and teachers access to resources for research beyond the traditional classroom setting and decreases the amount of time fatigued doing said researc... ...ithin a collaborative blog teaches students how to work professionally and respectfully in a group environment an essential employability skill. Using Facebook as a means of networking has become more popular throughout t he Middle East as revolutions spring up across the region. The ability to contact those outside of ones inner circle through social networking is a skill that is not lost on this Facebook generation. Internet technology must be well integrated into the structure of a course (content, learning goals, assessment) the best assignments bring the fruits of internet use into the classroom. (McManus, 2000). It is imperative that 21st century teachers prepare 21st century learners for the 21st century workforce. This means that teachers must utilize all innovation and technological advances available to them, particularly via the internet.