My original thought when I developed my wiki was to create a central location my students could visit for extra tutoring.  They could ask questions about homework assignments and help each other at the tutoring corner.  My students would also be able to check a calendar for reminders about upcoming tests and projects as well as dates when assignments were due.  Unfortunately, due in part to my district’s technology policy, I have been unable to implement my ideas with my classes; in order to use this form of technology with my students, I must have district approval.  I hope, though, to learn all that I can during this course and, then, apply these technology tools next school year with proper permission. 

I believe wikis can be extremely advantageous to teachers.  Wikis allow all users to edit the space, which would allow students to edit the site and ask questions and/or help each other.  Unfortunately, this practice can also be a disadvantage, leading to false truths and misleading information.  Thus, wikis require a great deal of monitoring to ensure that all information is correct.  With the current work load of most teachers, I believe that this could be hard for some, discouraging the use of wikis in the classroom. 

As for “digital natives,” I think that anything to do with technology helps to engage students in learning.  Last year and this year, I have given my students the option of taking notes on their laptops/iPads.  It was amazing how many started to pay attention more simply because they could use technology.  By being more attentive in class, students are more likely to understand the material presented and experience true learning.  As I read about the eLearning Tools Wiki, I uncovered many technologies with which I am somewhat familiar.  I would like to explore webcasting further in regards to educational uses.  In my opinion, webcasting could be used to supplement lessons, emphasizing key points.  Webcasting could also benefit students who were absent during the lesson or need a review of a given topic.