Chapter 7-8, Question 1

What is the Internet? What value does it hold for educators?

The internet is comprised of a network of individual machines, networks and servers that have agreed to connect, provide resources to one another and share data. The internet began as a network used primarily by military personnel and select universities. It was used much in the same manner as radio frequencies are used by two-way radios, only more advanced. Since its early beginnings of just a handful of sites, the internet has grown into a vast repository of information and services. Individual users have the ability to connect and access any and all of the information stored on the internet simply through the use of computers, which are in turn connected to the internet through modems. Through the internet, a nearly limitless cache of knowledge is literally at the tips of our fingers.

The primary advantage the internet holds for an educator is the efficiency with which said educator is able to access information. Knowledge is power, and the internet gives us the key to unlocking immense potential.

The standards of educational goals within a given state, district or school can be accessed via the internet. Dispensing information in this manner makes the logistical task of keeping educators on the same page infinitely easier than trying to dispense books, pamphlets or flyers, to everyone, or trying to hold conferences anytime a bit of data changes. Through the internet, all of the relevant information can be updated as necessary, with minimal trouble, and is instantly accessible by the people that need it.

The internet is also useful as a social/professional barometer with which to gauge one's own teaching. By using the internet, an educator can instantly access thousands of lesson plan formats and configurations. By analyzing the work of others, we are therefore better equipped to accurately analyze our own work, and make appropriate changes as needed.

And lastly, the information one can access via the internet is wonderful in its own right. Perhaps an educator is scheduled to teach Romeo and Juliet to a class and wants to know more about the subject. All he has to do is look to the internet and is instantly privy to a wealth of information on the subject. Not only is the instructor now better qualified to speak intelligently regarding the lesson, but the students benefit by receiving a better instructional session.