Web Worlds: How Wikis, Nings, and Social Bookmarking Support 21st Century Classroom Pedagogy

Abstract:     
This paper argues that socially networked environments increase student engagement and writing practice and move instructors closer to 21st century educational goals. I will first explain Rhetorical Ecology theory (RE) and argue in support of taking this pedagogical approach to support learning in the technologically infused classroom. Through links, I will provide a virtual tour of electronic classroom environments and explain some of the practical aspects of these tools. In closing I will discuss how cultivating an "Ecology of Technology" supports student engagement and learning by examining some of the latest research in the field of Cognitive Science.

Number of Pages in PDF File: 28

Keywords: education, technology, theory, composition, groups, collaboration

working papers series