Second Day Reflections

The morning started with a brief team building activity. We were asked to create a headline about some feature of the person we interviewed on Monday. There were two headlines that came to mind concerning Jenifer. They were -- "Jenifer Riches, a USU graduate, teaches English in Brazil" and "Jenifer Riches' new Honda is sleek!"

Next our discussion was directed to the definition and function of social networks and learning communities. We explored the positive results that can emerge when a group of individuals, with common goals, share information to enrich the learning of each participant. It was concluded that sometimes a social network can emerge into a learning community.

Our last activity before lunch break was setting up a Hotmail account.

After lunch, we assembled in the classroom for a team building activity which entailed trying to piece together a solution when each student was given only a piece of the problem. Ultimately, when all participants collaborated, the correct answer to the problem was identified.

Simulation was our next topic of discussion. One person defined simulation as anything that takes the place of the real world to reduce the cost. Sandie played for us a simulation featuring the sea life and environment of a kelp forest in Monterey Bay. It was an attention-getter as well as an informative activity.

Back to the computer room, we learned about instant messaging and all the students participated in an online group discussion. For me, it was a bit confusing as I had never before explored the wonders of IM.

Our last activity of the day was a discussion of our final paper. Sandie outlined the content that should be included and reminded us that this assignment is due on the 9th of July.

By the time we finished, my brain was overloaded. However, it is invigorating to learn of the many tools that are becoming so commonplace in our society.