A current issue facing education today involves the popularity of online learning, and the common presumption that eventually this method of educating oneself will lead to the demise of the teaching profession. But can we really assume that one will receive a thorough, well-rounded education without ever setting foot inside a classroom? Or never having the opportunity to engage in face-to-face interactions with a teacher and share ideas with peers?

Finally…a principal in NJ who believes that using technology and social media can actually improve the learning experience for students.

Greg Toppo of USA Today has found a high school principal who actively encourages both his teachers and students to use social networking in the classroom. Eric Sheninger, the principal of New Milford High School, uses Facebook to communicate with students and parents, and allows the use of cell phones in the classroom to respond to polls and quizzes. According to Sheninger, “sites such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube actually push kids to do better work and pay attention to important issues such as audience, quality research and copyright laws.”

Although still challenged by many who believe that students will take advantage of this freedom to explore using technology in the classroom, this concept of utilizing social media is a growing trend. I believe the positive effects of creativity and collaboration far outweigh the potential problems that may be associated with unrestricted access. After all, students today are digital natives. Isn’t it about time we used that to engage our students to become responsible 21st century learners?

Read the full article: Social media find place in classroom

In her article entitled The Top 6 Emerging Technologies in K-12 Education, author Tanya Roscorla describes the technologies recently identified by the New Media Consortium that will most likely have an impact on K-12 education.

With the emergence of new technology and its implementation in the classroom, the move from the traditional model of teaching to a more innovative experience is catching on across the country. A recent article by Colleen O’Dea of NJ Spotlight explores this current trend of leveraging the uses of technology as a way to actively engage students in the learning process, and simultaneously prepare them to thrive in the digital age.

The launching of iPad devices into K-12 classrooms seems like it would be met with little resistance. After all, most students thrive on the use of technology and most educators welcome the use of devices that promise to engage their students in the curriculum. But a look at pilot programs in two California schools and one Oregon school district may shed some light on the potential limitations of this concept.

A recent article published on FoxNews.com raises the question of whether the iPad can be considered a ‘Miracle Device’ for Autism. Devices that use a touchscreen, such as the iPad, can help children that struggle with sensory overload. Parents have noticed the positive effects that using iPads can have on their children, but can that change be transferred into an educational setting?