Technology+Leadership+Book+Summary



__RSS for Educators by John G. Hendron__

RSS for Educators is a book geared to equip teachers with the knowledge of Web 2.0.

It is well written in a style that is easily read and understood. Real-life examples are

included from the author’s school. Educators that are tech savvy will enjoy this book, as

you need some background knowledge to get the most out of the book. John G. Hendron

paints a clear picture of what technology in the classroom should look like. Hendron

explains the various media outlets available whether it is free or a paid service.

Hendron starts with how to use the tools available, he then gives a plethora of ways

to utilize them. Blogging is the first tool he touches on. Hendron has researched many

ways of blogging. Many of the ways mentioned are free, and some are paid services. You

can use blogging services that are hosted on your own server. You can also use blogging

services that host on the servers of the service provider. Whichever way you choose,

Herdon leads you to ways that students can interact with blogging. Improving students

writing skills and communication skills is enhanced through blogging, and Hendron

guides educators in making the most of this Web 2.0 tool.

Wikis are another Web 2.0 set of tools that Hendron divulges into. These fascinating

websites allow the students and teacher share the responsibilities of publishing and

editing content. Hendron shares real life experiences in the use of wikis at his school.

Hendron (2008) states that, “each time [he] introduce[s] wikis to educators, they are

engaged by the novelty of being able to manipulate a Web site so easily”. This is true of

the wikis and he goes into great detail to show educators not only how to operate the

wiki, but to get students engaged and fully integrate it into the classroom. He discussed

many different wikis available and the advantages and disadvantages to each type. Each

avenue has different features that must be explored before allowing students to dive in

head-first. It is a easy and harmless process, but care needs to be places on the safety of

the students.

One of the greatest Web 2.0 tools available is the Podcast. This is a phenomenon that

allows us to become the author and publisher. Hendron describes the advantages to the

various types podcasts and methods of producing them. He gives step-by-step

instructions on the different programs available and how to utilize them to gain the

outcome desired. The detail given to assure the reader understanding is amazing. There

are diagrams and he guides you through the process in a hands-on way, if you will.

Hendron also discusses the validity and value of Web conferencing among

classrooms. VoIp is a viable option to link two classrooms through the computer. They

can see and hear one another using the various programs discussed in detail. Hendron

(2008) states that kindergarteners at his school loved the VoIP tool. They loved seeing

their older peers through the computer. He printed lesson plan worksheets to help

teachers meet their state curriculum needs. Concern is expressed with the validity of

those involved. It is urged that educators using this means of communication be aware of

the classroom they are collaborating with. If cautious is used it will be a fun and exciting

lesson for all involved.

Reading RSS for Educators has opened my eyes to the plethora of opportunities to tie

technology into any lesson. I encourage any educator or administrator to read this text

and keep it as a reference book. There are so many usable ideas to incorporate technology

into the student’s day. They already know most of the content, it is up to the educators to

guide them to use it wisely. I give this book two-thumbs-up and will keep it for future

reference in my technology journey.

REFERENCE:

Hendron, J. (2008). RSS for Educators: Bogs, Newsfeeds, Podcasts, and Wikis in the Cassroom