PE5_Netvibes

For my Relevant and Innovative Learning Scenario (RILS), the students will also set up an account on www.netvibes.com.  I love the idea of a Personal Learning Environment (PLE).  Students always love activities that are personal to them because the see the value.  My students search the Internet a lot to read articles and are always very interested in news and current events.  It is absolutely wonderful that they can have a space which provides information overload on the topics/issues of their choice.  Of course, my job will be to assist them in evaluating sources and determining which information is best.

Creating an account on Netvibes is really easy, and I don't foresee any access problems with the network at school.  In preparation for the lesson, I will work with the computer technicians to solve any accessibility issues.  I like that the students can have multiple dashboards.  In the screen shot below, you can see my three dashboards: youth ministry, career and technical education, and fine and performing arts careers.  I also have the option of activating my public page.

For each interest, there are basically three to four default tabs when one initially begins the site:  news, videos, conversations, and google searches.  Additional tabs can be added.

With Netvibes, I like that I can stay signed-in.  I started my Netvibes account about two week ago.  Whenever I go to www.netvibes.com, my dashboard automatically appears.  I have easy access to lots of buzz about my interests.

Undoubtedly, the students will love getting the 411on what they enjoy.  I love that Netvibes will provide them with news and current events about their interests.  In my experience as a classroom teacher, many students have not researched the careers, etc. in which they proclaim interest.  Or, they have very limited knowledge of what the career actually involves.  If they are aware of the career, they normally are not aware of current issues pertaining to the career or how to keep themselves updated and inundated with pertinent information. I believe Netvibes is an excellent way to get them in on the conversation.  When they meet professionals, have interviews, write essays, etc., I foresee this tool helping them to gain an awareness that will enable them to engage in a meaningful way with their audience.