Journal 6 - Don't Feed The Trolls (NETS-T 5)

The article talks about the concept that students need to be guided when it comes to internet usage just as they do in the real world. Using the virtual world can enhance learning, especially when students are able to distinguish between appropriate behavior and that which in unacceptable in the virtual world. Civil discourse is the main subject of this article and can be defined as: appropriate, or civil, behavior in the virtual world.

What exactly is a "troll" and how does this term relate to the internet?

A troll is anyone who posts rude or offensive material on the internet. This could be on a blog either as an insult or rude comment. Students must be educated and guided by educators and adults when proper internet etiquette should be considered.

What are the major benefits of using a blog in the classroom?

As our world becomes increasingly electronic, notebooks and paper exams are becoming things of the past. The technical advantages provided by Blogging far surpass the tradition of notebooks. Also, today's students are comfortable in the virtual world and also comfortable using blogs for student collaboration.

Richardson, K (May 2008). Don't Feed the Trolls. Learning and Leading with Technology, Retrieved July 31, 2009, from http://www.iste.org/Content/NavigationMenu/Publications/LL/LLIssues/Volume_35_2007_2008_/MayNo7/L_L_May_2008.htm