Apr 25 2008
D-1: IM in the Classroom
At the moment I do not use IM in the classroom but I like the intention to collaborate and have an effective exchange with others. I tried it when we got a new “communication” software that supported instant messaging. As I slowly worked on possible ideas on how to use this new idea in the classroom I was feeling fairly positive in my preparation. Then I tried it out in class.
I found that I had less control over the students. When I say less control it means their focus and mine was minimized because of the distraction the tool brought to us. It was too easy to get off the point. Also I found that when the students would give an instant reply they were not better, thoughtful or organized responses.
The setup and management of this new attempt of learning was not developed well either. In fact, the school had to disconnect the IM capabilities because of the misuse by students. We had to go back to the table and think it through more; it hasn’t left the table yet.
I will admit that we, providers, need to do a better job introducing a tool like IM to a school environment and also make clear the expectations and consequences of it’s use to all individuals, specifically instructors and students, within the organization. It may be possible to start again with smaller steps by using online software like Yahoo Messenger, GoogleTalk, AIM.com or even Jabber to learn how it may be more successful within a my classroom.
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IM is a great tool. It is easy to be distracted and students can abuse IM. Planning and instruction becomes very important. I believe that students need to be taught when and how IM is appropriate. This is certainly not an easy task.