Importance of connecting with others in an area of passion
Steve Hargadon interviewed a 14 year old, Arthus, who has been blogging on Educational Technology . It’s so great that Arthus has been able to use Web 2.0 technologies to connect with others in his area of passion. He has found an authentic audience to respond to his thoughts, and to help him continue to explore his area of interest. Reading Steve’s interview with Arthus and then Arthus’s blog really supports my thoughts that GT kids need Web 2.0 technologies to connect with mentors, like minded peers, and high level content.
October 23rd, 2007 at 3:55 pm
I couldn’t agree more that web 2.0 tools are important for connecting gifted students with others who share their (our is rather pompous) passions. However, I think that it is not just GT students who can benefit from connecting via web 2.0 tools. I think that every student has something to gain by connecting with like-minded peers – GT students just have less of a chance to do so in real life.
Also, I do have some issues with the whole “gifted and talented” movements and labeling. For one thing, it seems very pretentious. In addition, many programs seem so act as though “gifted” students naturally have some problems that go with their gifts – there is no reason that need be the case. However, my school has never had a gifted program so I really have no experience with how it works in other schools.
October 23rd, 2007 at 4:34 pm
Yes, I agree all students need web 2.0 tools. However, GT students frequently do not have like minded peers in their own school or community and web 2.0 allows them to connect with peers with similiar interests and abilities in new ways. While I see your point about labels and stereotypes, sometimes the label is needed to get services (ie challenging and relevant educational opportunities). In the NCLB world, frequently high level educational programs are sacrified in order to prepare for the test. If the GT label gets bright, articulate, and creative students an opportunity to learn differently and have authentic learning experiences, then I’ll deal with the label. I think the whole GT kids have problems stereotype is just that a stereotype. The more we as educators can do to elimate all stereotypes the better! I know many GT kids who are bright, articulate, well adjusted and happy students.