How and why do teachers need to evaluate websites for use in the classroom? We were shown some great examples of questionable websites in class over the past few weeks. We had to look closely to understand their true content and it is understandable how challenging this would be for children. Some were very professionally put together while others offered convincing photography. Some of these websites were in regards to Martin Luther King, the Fisher Price airplane, the Tree Octopus, the History of Sliced Bread and two websites about Dihydrogen Monoxide. It was very helpful to figure out which websites were fictitious or accurate and to then discuss the opinions formed from their information.
It is clear that teachers must take the time to closely inspect the websites that they choose to use as tools in their classrooms. Briefly scanning over a website's content is not a valid assessment. To ensure student safety teachers can limit students to certain websites. Beyond this sources must be checked and the use of multiple sources is always helpful for students to decipher accurate information.
I found Kathy Schrock's Guide for Educators had some very helpful tools for website evaluations. This website offers classroom handouts and a variety of evaluation formats for teachers. Such as Critical Evaluation Survey: Elementary, Middle, Secondary School Level, Teacher Sites, Virtual
No comments:
Post a Comment