Introduction

Many teachers would argue that students today are quite different to those they might have taught twenty years ago. Research suggests that they differ in some interesting ways and that they tend to be: Copyright 2006 "Teaching the 21st Century Learner"
 * Why use technology?**
 * Multi-taskers
 * Digitally literate
 * Mobile and connected 24/7
 * Experiential
 * Social
 * Visual/spatial learners
 * Fast response times with short attention spans

In the second decade of the 21st century our students are developing in a fast-paced and very different environment to when their teacher's were growing up. In the "Digital Age", when students have facts at their fingertips, teachers are no longer the “font of all knowledge”, their students don’t need to memorize facts and questions shouldn’t be easily ‘googled’. Instead of rote learning; analysis, synthesis, evaluation, inquiry, problem-solving and creation should be the focus of learning. Technology provides opportunities for students to connect, communicate, collaborate and participate in collective knowledge construction. They can create products to share with their peers, parents and people across the globe, providing an authentic audience. Today's students are often engaged by social media and games, which provide them with a sense of belonging and opportunities to particpate in challenging environments. Framework for 21st Century Learning How can 20th Century Teachers Lead 21st Century Learners? The Collective Knowledge Construction Model Virtual Learning Environments - Improving Student Learning Outcomes
 * Student-centered Learning **

**My Digital Footprint**
As with any new development, there can be both benefits and pitfalls of implementation and use. Sometimes people can become overwhelmed by the amount of information and number of different choices available. They can struggle to remember sites, usernames, passwords and how to use various software tools. This difficulty is best overcome by starting with simple tools, working at your own pace and taking small steps. Choose one learning outcome and find ways to substitute technology for your existing teaching strategies. Remember that technology is a tool, not a learning outcome. Positive Impacts of E-learning (white paper) Substitution - Augmentation - Modification - Redefinition (SAMR) Model Tips for Creating a Blended Classroom
 * The E-Learning Journey - a steep learning curve.**

You may have heard some horror stories about the use of technology and social media - stalking, kidnapping, suicides and burglaries. However, terrible acts have been committed throughout history by immoral people - it is the user of the tool that is irresponsible, not the fault of the tool itself. Students need to learn safe and appropriate use of the tools and act in ways that respect the rights of others. @Manners Matter - Ten important things for students to be good digital citizens Cybersmart site Cyber Safe Kids Common Sense Media - Family Tip Sheets
 * Cybersafety, s**** ocial media etiquette and online responsibilities **

One example of safety online for students is not to use a photograph of themselves that is easily recognizable. It is useful for each student to create their own avatar at the beginning of the year, that they can use as an image to represent themselves. An avatar is required for programs such as Voicethread, Facebook, Twitter and others. Go to the @Avatars page, create your own avatar and post it on the page.
 * Creating an online presence**

Grade 6 Class blog from Henrietta Miller at Roseville College, Sydney. "Alannah's blog" A student blog using the Global2 platform. "The Earth's Magnetic Field" - Winner of the 2013 "60 Second Science Competition" (Victorian Secondary School division). "A Different Water Cycle" video by Olivia, Tahlia and Courtney on Vimeo. "The Amazing Lemon Battery" by Kilberry Valley Primary School on the "60 Second Science Competition". "Australia's Big Blunder" by 12 year old students, Fred and Noah, from Merri Creek. "Gravity and the Baby Bird" - a digital story book created in "StoryJumper".
 * Best-practise digital products**

** Getting to know you: ** Your first task is to add to the collaborative Google presentation, by adding a photo that means something to you, your name and your role at the school, as well as three words that describe you or are important to you.