Possibilities & Classroom Limitations

There are countless possibilities of using games, immersive social networking, and virtual worlds in the classroom environment.  There are also a few limitations.  I will mention in a categorical response to my thoughts on both.

Games - Possibilities:  After reading Gamestorming, I believe that gaming is a wonderful way to visually map out processes of learning.  Virtual gaming not only be able to help visually solve problems, but will also lend a hand in learning the overall functionalities of a keyboard and computer.  Hey, lets face it, some of those games get pretty complex.  Gaming can be used to present ideas, and help students overcome challenges.

Games-Limitations:  As with anything in education, there will always be technological limitations (as far as I can tell).  One of the biggest limitations with virtual gaming would be bandwidth.  In a school server, all students, faculty, and administration are using the internet full time.  Gaming is notorious for gobbling bandwidth, and if utilized to often during a day, could potentially slow connectivity for other classes.  It is a common problem I face today.  Also, controlling the environment without the proper equipment could potentially pose a grievance.

Social Networking- Possibilities:  I am not a Sociallite on the Internet.  I don't see how it is beneficial to share our Social Lives in the classroom.  However, Social Networking can be utilized for groups or clubs to pass along information and get students involved in participatory activities.  In the meantime, there are education-designed Social classrooms that prove to be a success.  I am using Edmodo in my classroom, which looks much like Facebook.  It has all the features, but gives control to the teachers more than the average social network.  I believe in time, Social Networks will be better equipped for the classroom setting.  The evolution has already begun, but I dont think we are quite there yet.

Social Networking - Limitations:  Where to begin.  To start, I am not a student's friend.  I am a mentor, and leader...It is not necessary for me to delve into their personal lives in order to achieve my goals as an educator.  I also do not care for them knowing what I do off the clock.  Therefore, the first limitation exists.  The main limitation is control.  Students today hold very little back on the internet, and I would not want to be caught in the middle of a situation that could get me in a bind with ethics.  Teachers have little control of what is said or posted on social networks.  It could pose problems.

Virtual Worlds- Possibilities:  Endless.  Everyone has an alter-ego, and if I have ever had fun doing an assignment it would be that of creating an alter-ego for myself in a virtual world.  I love animation and creation.  I have seen students spend more time finding profile pics  than researching for an assignment. Students enjoy it.  All the way to the adult level.  It is a win win.

Virtual Worlds - Limitations:  Money.  I have yet to find a free Virtual world that is worth making an assignment out of.  It sux having to pay for that stuff. In education, money is usually scarce.  Also there is that bandwidth issue that could possible take effect. Soon there will be free, virtual world freedom.  When that day comes, I will pioneer into the unknown!