Blog #1

One of the websites that I've visited recently is EDTECH, http://edtechisland.wetpaint.com/, and it describes how with the help of a simulation program named Second Life, teachers can receive a first hand experience in situations that they may not normally face in real life. In this specific website, they focus on how Boise State University created “EDTECH Island” on Second Life that focuses on helping education and hosting teaching events. In our Block I courses it was mandatory to do assignments on Second Life, and much like Boise State University, UTPA also has their own designated section in Second Life that focuses on students of the College of Education. Although I did not find it useful at the time of my Block I courses, perhaps I could utilize Second Life in order to learn how to deal with “difficult students.” I found during my first day of our current field observation that I was overwhelmed by the students that we in the school. Some students were hyperactive, others were “troubled”, and other students were unresponsive. Although I do not believe that it should be mandatory, perhaps utilizing Second Life for our own professional growth would be a great tool.