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Participate 1.1.2 Joining a Digital Learning Community Quest

Finding the Right DLC

After investigating Digital Learning Communities, I found many that I liked. I also realized that I was already a member of a few and was using these as classroom resources. I believe the most difficult part of finding the correct DLC is making sure it is reputable. To start off, I always consider the source. Have I heard of this DLC or the organization that has created it?  This also requires exploring the DLC. Additionally, I think about if the DLC meets the needs that I am looking for. 

DLC for Me

Once I have reviewed several DLCs, I bookmarked some using Google bookmarks. This was best for me because I am using blogger, and I like how all of the Google products link together nicely.

https://www.google.com/bookmarks/bookmarks.html?hl=en

I chose these DLC because they met my individual needs or my students. I found them easy to use and  places I could learn and find information.

Bookmarks

DLC; Collaborate; communicate; teacher; students; assignments; apps

Edmodo

educational website that takes the ideas of a social network and refines them and makes it appropriate for a classroom

DLC; learning projects; research; learning research; collaborative learning

Wikiversity

DLC; learning videos; tutorials; practice

Khan Academy 

Tutorials for a variety of subjects.

DLC; online courses; learning circles

P2PU

DLC; Online courses; movies; languages ebooks; textbook

Open Culture

Free cultural and educational media on the web

My Choice
 I chose to use Edmodo because my students and I can communicate though this DLC. I also have the option of uploading documents, giving quizzes, and sending apps.The interface is easy to use and gives the teacher control over posts. The students enjoy the opportunity to learn and share in this format. It is very similar to a social network site, so it is right on trend. 

A Digital Citizen must choice carefully considering priorities. When choosing Edmodo, I thought about my top 3 priorities. Is this a place where students can communicate, show respect and be safe? Edmodo has the tools for a teacher to use to ensure this. Just the fact that an email sends posts to the teachers allows me to monitor the online contact. I can also delete posts and share information with parents.

These options made it the right one for me!