The Networked Classroom

-  What are the advantages or disadvantages of a networked classroom?
          There are many advantages to having a networked classroom.  When your classroom is networked, your students become open to a whole new world of resources, information, and people.  Does your student want to learn about marine biology?  They can Skype with a marine biologist.  They can get up to the minute information straight from the source.  They can also find people who have the same interests and needs and use these people as a collaborative resource.  No longer are they confined to the information contained in out of date book and webpages.  
          While the advantages of a networked classroom are overwhelming, one must also make sure that students do not become to engrossed in their online world.  We must still focus on building and honing social skills and keep the personal element and team mindset of a traditional classroom.  In addition, not all information online is accurate and most things must be taken with a grain of salt.  On line predators and cyberbullying must also be considered.  

-  How can you slowly transition your classroom to become a networked classroom?
          I would start the transition into a networked classroom slowly by introducing certain networking tools as small parts of larger lessons.  You could introduce your students to blogging as part of a larger project in which the blog is just a small piece of the finished product.  This gets the students introduced to the concept of blogging without making is huge and overwhelming.  I would also make sure that with each new piece of networking, I thoroughly explain and model the proper use of the tool as well as closely monitor for any misuse.  Mini technology workshops held periodically for the class would be helpful also.  

-  How could a networked classroom address the diverse needs of all learners (sped, gifted, ESOL,
     etc.)?
          One great thing about being networked is that there is always someone or some group of people out there with similar abilities, learning needs, and interests.  Being networked no longer confines these diverse learners to the walls of their classroom and school.  They are now able to find and utilize others "in the same boat" and discover great and helpful tools.