This week I learned:
Facebook-Pro: I enjoyed setting up Facebook. I didn’t have to set it up for this class due to the fact that I already use it however it was very easy. I like that you can load photos directly from your cell phone. The con associated with Facebook is associated with the privacy settings. I think that everything should be private until you actually go in and change them.
Ning-Pro: I enjoyed setting up Ning as well. It was simple. The con surrounds the applications. They don’t really detail information as to how to utilize them. You have to go through trial and error but I like the personal aspect of Ning. I like that you can create a network and invite your friends to be part of it.
PBWorks-Pro: I like that you can customize PBWorks to fit your personality. You can change the color of the background, add a logo, and even control who can access the workspace. I don’t have a con for PBWorks at present however as I continue to use it there is a possibility that could change.
PBWorks best fits my ideas and needs. The use of the activity tracker, assignments page, course page, and even the syllabus page will assist me with running a successful class.
Week 4 discussion 2
I do not think that Facebook, Ning, or PBWorks can replace learning management systems at present. Because we live in a world of constant changes it is very much a possibility that it could happen but not at this time. The one thing that stands out when you think of learning management systems is that when you take a quiz or an assessment the system will show you what you missed however your results are sent to your teacher upon submission. With the social networking sites you have the ability to make changes and even delete information that you can’t bring up again. The social networking sites also make information that you post available to the public. I think that PBWorks will probably be the first to compete with other learning management systems because they do have them for educators.
