1 The Impact of Networking in Education Cynthia Hernandez

2 Background o Third grade teacher o 3 rd year teaching o Title One Elementary School o Student majority are Economically Disadvantaged Eduardo Villarreal Elementary School

3 Importance of Networking “Networks significantly influence educational success and contribute to a states competitive status, economic development and general quality of life.” (J.B Matthews, 2004) Teachers can collaborate with educators around the world A new way to continue education Enhances life long learning Engages teachers

4 Networks  Both Sites Include › Forums › Instant Message › Blogs › Wikis › Photo Sharing › Video Sharing › Resources 1. Elementary Tech Teachers 2. Vid Snacks

5 Elementary Tech Teachers Network Benefits  Collaboration amongst other elementary teachers  Provides hands on experience  Easy access for continuous learning  See what other educators are doing in their classrooms  Teachers around the world share resources  21 st century teaching motivates teachers

6 Elementary Tech Teachers In the Classroom  Student engagement  New lesson ideas  Student collaboration with classrooms around the globe (wikis, blogs, skype, etc)  Overcome the fear of technology use in the classroom

7 Vid Snacks Network Benefits Tech savvy members available for tech support and ideas Use examples to create curriculum aligned lessons Collaborate with other co- workers and motivate them to use technology

8 Vid Snacks In the Classroom Engaged interactive learning Use website videos as examples/models Third graders would be creating and learning from each other New areas of interest can be developed by students

9 Professional Practice Impact  “Brilliant teachers have experienced the empowering power of technology themselves” (Johnson, Doug 2009).  Keeping myself engaged in 21 st century education keeps my students engaged while learning. 

10 Bibliography Holt, T. (2010). Vid Snacks. Retrieved January 18, 2010, from Johnson, D. (2009). Seven Brilliant Things Teachers Do With Technology. Matthews, J. (2004). Why Statewide Educational Networks are Important to State and Educational Leaders. Southern Regional Educational Board. Neidra. (2010). Elementary Tech Teachers. Retrieved January 25, 2010, from