PLN #3*

2c Worth. “The Answer for Textbook Publishers” by David Warlick

“The Answer for Textbook Publishers” by David Warlick suggests that textbooks should become smaller in order to “be relevant to our students lives and their future”. The idea is that books should be 2 x 3 inches, to be similar to the screen size of their iPod. This would not be very practical. The small size would make it easier to slip away or get lost in the jumble of a locker. Also, pages would have to be cut out unless hundreds of 2 x 3 inch textbooks were made to contain all of the information in one 9 x 12 inch book. I don’t think that this would benefit me and my learning process because I like being able to page through my textbooks if I need to reference a topic. If I had many 2 x 3 textbooks I would have to first find the textbook, then the needed information. This process would be very tedious and I might not even find what I’m looking for. I think these tiny books wouldn’t be a good idea for the classroom. Kids would forget their books or which ones to bring, and it would disrupt the flow of class.

I realize that the suggestion for 2 x 3 textbooks is satirical—the author is trying to say we should use technology which kids use often—iPhones, computers, etc.—to try to interest them in learning. As for me, I prefer to have my information in a regular book rather than sent to my iPhone or computer. However, this may have a different effect on classmates—some may be more inclined to do their homework if they could do it on their iPhone. Increased technology also benefits the world. If there is more technology, more items need to be manufactured, which would give more people jobs and help the economy.

PLN #2

Denver Post. "Luxury Fashion: Even the rich are getting thrifty" by Anne D'Innocenzio

"Luxury Fashion: Even the rich are getting thrifty", by Anne D'Innocenzio is drawing attention to how designers are making fashion more reasonable and at a lower price. This is beneficial to me because I will be able to have nice, designer clothing--which is every teenage girl's dream!--at a reasonable price. It would be a dream come true to have a closet full of the finest clothing! As for the classroom, I would be able to focus better knowing I look great! However, the downside of the of that is kids would be distracted with my awesome outfits (lol jk). This will also make a huge impact on the world as well. Not only will money be saved from the cost of marketing, but it will also save the shoppers money. That means they will buy more since it does not cost as much, and that is what keeps the economy going. Fashion designers decisions on making more reasonable and affordable clothing lines is a good decision and will help everyone.

PLN #1

Weblogg-ed. "The Obama Speech" by Will Richardson

"The Obama Speech" by Will Richardson was very motivational, as was Obama's speech on education. His message is strong—that a good, solid education would not only be beneficial to the individual—but to the country as a whole. America would be a stronger nation if all her citizens gave her their fullest talents. Not only would America benefit from educated citizens, but the whole world could also gain the knowledge in new technologies and sciences that would be discovered. I agree with Will Richardson in saying schools could have taught lessons in oratory, research skill, and the drop-out rate, and so forth. These ideas would be a perfect discussion topic for an English class. I also believe that it’s important for schools to start letting students make their own ideas and shape their own beliefs. What truly matters is their opinion and they should be allowed to voice it. This speech matters to me because I would be affected in a positive way if we as a country started taking education more serious. It would open all sorts of doors for whatever I—or anyone else—wanted to do in life. I believe we should take this message to heart because it could change many lives.