Web 2.0

Teacher librarians are well placed to use Web 2.0 tools to benefit teaching and learning. Wikis, blogs and social bookmarking tools enable a greater capacity to share information. This potentially leads to the growth of knowledge at a faster rate.

Limitations with Blogs
• Students may need to be reminded to keep posts relevant to the topic.
• A blog takes time to maintain.

Wikis
I know of a teacher librarian who uses a wiki to provide links to websites on specific research topics for students.

Social Bookmarking
In a primary school lesson using library computers, students may research a topic and add bookmark websites. By the end of the lesson, there could potentially be a comprehensive list of resources collaboratively created by the class for a specific purpose. Students need to evaluate websites before bookmarking them.

Challenges with using Web 2.0 Tools in Schools
• Students need to be taught how to evaluate websites, for their use to be most effective. Students also need to use blogs and wikis appropriately.
• Staff may require professional development in the use of Web 2.0 tools with classes.
• The availability of computers may be limited.
• Social bookmarking sites and other pages may be blocked on school computer systems.