Classroom Web Sites Pros and Cons

Classroom Web Sites Pros and Cons

Running head: CLASSROOM WEB SITES PROS AND CONS








Classroom Web Sites Pros and Cons
CMP 560
Instructional Multimedia Authoring

Classroom Web Sites Pros and Cons
The Internet has been around since 1969. It was during this time that the Department of Defense introduced the concept as an experimental packet-switched network, which they called ARPANET. This concept and deployment eventually evolved into what we now call the Internet. However, the world wide use of the Internet did not explode until the introduction of graphical user interface (GUI) operating systems, which enabled the development of easy to use Internet applications (web browsers). This phase ushered in the era of the World Wide Web (WWW).
Research on the pros and cons of using the Internet to host classroom web sites and/or provide digital content makes us aware of many issues surrounding this evolving practice. Educators need to take into consideration many variables that affect the way educational content is hosted on a classroom web site or used in the classroom. Karla D. Webb (2006) stated, "there is no limit to the amount, design, and organization of the information published on the Internet, nor is there a governing body to test the authenticity of the published content" (p. 2). This becomes one of many critical concerns for teachers who develop their own web site or draw upon digital content for use in an educational setting. Paula K. Albright (ND) notes that educators who use digital content in their classrooms are "challenged to consider related concerns such as the judging the quality and usefulness of learning resources, finding appropriate materials, and developing ways to integrate technology into the curriculum. There is an abundance of digital content available to teachers but deciding when and how to use the content presents challenges" (para. 2).
Another major aspect important to web site development and the use of digital content in and/or outside of the...