Nets.T Performance Indicator 3

The third performance indicator for the 21st National Educational Technology Standards focuses on collaboration between "...students, peers, parents, and community members using digital tools and resources to support student success and innovation." (The ISTE National Educational Technology Standards (NETS.T) and Performance Indicators for Teachers). This can be accomplished in a number of imaginative ways. The virtual learning environment, utilizing technology offered through the Internet, can be an effective means of melding the proven collaborative learning concept with today's technology. However, as educators, we must not lose contact with the craft of teaching/coaching, the sense of personal engagement the teacher feels he or she should have with their student. If we are to use all the latest technology available to us then we as educators should introduce technology with personal and instructional support, always staying within the context of "student-centered learning". Technology should only be a tool to assist educators not to serve as a replacement. Also, let us not lend favor to those who are more advanced in technology than those who are not. This may cause assessment inaccuracies. {Is the student having difficulty with concepts in "Biology" or is the student struggling with the virtual software, "Wiki", (www.wikispaces.com)}

We as educators should have an established teaching philosophy (www.louis-hoffman-virtualclassroom.com/Teaching_Philosophy/Index.htm). This provides each of us with are own standards of teaching which we should strive to maintain everyday (being aware of our goals and our strategies). The student and teacher "..share equal responsibility for achieving the goals of the course."

We as educators should have a firm understanding of the technology we wish to use in our classroom so we can competently instruct its application to our students. We can then implement this latest technology to assist us with the craft of teaching, making certain technology does not conflict with educating.

Technology affords us so much opportunity to explore the many different avenues there are for learning. The virtual communicative software program "Wiki" greatly enhances the interaction and collaboration among students which is vital for success. Complex material can be more easily understood using the ideas of concept mapping which can be developed through "webspiration" (www.webspiration.com). Understanding the latest barrage of technology is important to keep up with the "21st century" but we as teachers can't forget are primary focus; to inspire, to encourage, and most importantly share the responsibility with the student on their success.