The group web site project was an interesting experience. I had completed several other group projects and I had created Google sites before, so the experience enforced prior knowledge of Google sites. My reaction to the experience, however, surprised me. In my younger years, I could contribute freely, but I did not feel the desire to take the lead, even for a better product. To my own surprise, I found myself taking on a leadership role, not because I desired to lead but because I wanted a great product.
One of the other group members set up the Google group and I waited for someone else to take the lead and initiate the site. When no one did, I set it up based on comments from co-members. I found myself in the role of a leader as I critiqued the website throughout the week and made critical suggestions. When one group member appeared to not understand the principals, I made last-minute changes to his page. It seemed to me that, as I made suggestions, other members interacted favorably and three of them stepped up and completed their part.
I learned that, as I get older, I am taking on leadership roles and people appear to look to me for help and advice. At the same time, I am learning the value of collaboration. In the future, I will definitely seek to collaborate whenever possible. Not only will I be teaching, but I will be learning as well.
Using web sites in the PK-12 classroom could be a very valuable tool. Students learn to work together and to learn from each other as they critique each other’s work. There will be leaders, followers and non-conformists and whether they are blogging, presenting information or processing information, they will all be learning.
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