K-12 Implemetation of Websites in the classroom

As a professional educator, learning about website design through the C.R.A.P. design principles and the readings and other information in 5366, I can find so many uses for this process in any K-12 classroom. Have classroom websites designed and added to by students would be an incredible tool in the classroom. I can see having basic guidelines for posting and teaching the C.R.A.P. principles to students as a start. With 1:1 becoming a huge trend in our public schools, this would be easy to implement and engage while encouraging students as they grow and take ownership of their educational efforts.


Once a system is in place, in a K-12 classroom (which in Texas is about 22 students), I envision a teacher creating a main page designed with students during morning meeting. Then, a page for each student for their eportfolio or even have them make their own site to update with new learning, projects, and reflections. Individual sites could be linked to the classroom page. A blog with questions posed by the teacher or a question of the week posed by another student to answer and interact on the blog with their teacher and with classmates. This could be the go to site for students and for parents with links, information, and other interesting things that are happening.


For older student, individual sites can be created linking to the main class page and grouped into periods, sections. As with the K-12, this can be a place to interact, blog, ask questions of classmates and take more ownership of learning and projects.  It would give them an eportfolio site that would be a great resources for teachers and for the students.


This week, I created a Facebook secret page for my children to be able to put animations, reflect on their learning, and discuss their interests and things that are making a difference for them. Only family is invited and can see their work and discuss with them and mentor them in their learning. I am considering moving to a website for our family.


I have learned so much during this process and can see so many application in the classroom and outside of the classroom as we teach students to take responsibility and ownership of their learning. Even learning extensions can become easily managed. Technology has opened the world to the classroom and the sky of possibilities is unending.