Entry 1

Define new literacy in your own words:
The term literacy refers to the educational approach to reading,writing, and communicating. One approach to literacy is the use of text books. New literacy is the current educational approach when learning how to read,write, and communicate using technology. New literacy changes frequently due to new discoveries in technology and how the world evolves through time.
The internet is one example of new literacy because it can be used as a supportive resource to text books, pencils, and paper in the classroom.
Define the NETS for Students and NETS for Teachers in your own words:
For students, NETS are the required expectations for learning when using technology. These standards are implemented to promote creativity, communication and collaboration among peers, research and information fluency, critical thinking, problem solving, decision making, digital citizenship, and technological comprehension.

For teachers. NETS are the required expectations for designing, instructing, facilitating, and engaging student learning utilizing technology in the classroom. Teachers implement content area knowledge via various digital resources replacing outdated material such as encyclopedias and text books. NETS ensure high quality instruction across the country that accommodates diverse learners simultaneously.

Provide at least one specific example of how you can cultivate/develop critical new literacy and the NETS in your classroom:
I teach the Wilson Reading Program (a phonemic awareness reading program). I am attending training workshops to implement Lexia (computer based program) that works in conjunction to the Wilson Program. Lexia incorporates partial NETS criteria such as designing and facilitating activities using the internet and providing students the opportunity collaborate when accomplishing literary tasks.

Other possibilities include:
Brain Pop is digital program used in Social Studies. The cartoon computer program is used to reinforce text book information and is interactive with students.

Thinking Central is an online Mathematics program that offers an online textbook and practice resources but my school will only have access this year due to funds.