Web 2.0 can 'work in schools'

02/10/2008

Teachers can use Web 2.0 technologies, such as social networking websites, to improve education provision in schools, it has been suggested.

Research by the government’s web design partner Becta found that Web 2.0 usage can boost student engagement and increase participation in the classroom.

The majority of teachers surveyed in the study said Web 2.0 resources should be used more in the classroom, but more than half have never utilised the technology in their own lessons.

Pupils are more proud of their work when it is published online and Web 2.0 technologies can also encourage both attention to detail and peer assessment techniques, the study suggested.

Tony Richardson, executive director of strategy and communications at Becta, said: “The report shows the impact that Web 2.0 can have on the motivation and engagement of pupils. We need to ensure that these benefits are extended to all learners.”

However, a silicon.com poll of chief information officers last month found that several had banned their adult workers from accessing Web 2.0 applications in their office because they felt they posed a security risk.