Although dissonance does exist between Alexander’s Web 2.0: A New Wave of Innovation for Teaching and Learning? and Batson’s Why is Web 2.0 Important to Higher Education; there is much similarity as well. First examine how closely worded the titles of the two pieces are. Right from the start we can already notice similar themes in writing – both choose to see Web 2.0 as it relates to education. In addition, Alexander and Batson both believe that the introduction of Web 2.0 is monumental a change in society. Batson likens its significance to that of Pearl Harbor, D-Day, 9/11, and even the 1960’s. When attaching a definition to Web 2.0, both authors stumble around the fact that the formerly viewer-only internet was transformed into an interactive internet where viewers can edit, contribute, and comment. The basic gist of each piece is similar; it is the style and view where they differ.
One piece comes from an English professor (Trent Batson), while the director for research of a national technology institute authors the other; the differing backgrounds result in different views. Batson discusses Web 2.0 from a more sociological viewpoint. He reasons with the effects it will have on society, and the changes that will result in the classroom. Alexander’s perspective shows more of a focus on the technological progression and history that lead to Web 2.0. Alexander also believes that even with the emergence of this new technology, teaching methods will remain; Batson disagrees and feels that lecture classes will be abolished because interactive classrooms are the way of the future. Similar themes may be found in these pieces, however the style and argument vary fairly significantly.
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I agree with your comment in the first paragraph that both articles are very similar, but the styles of writing are different. In my opinion one is much easier to read and understand while the other is more complex.
ReplyDeleteI like how you pull out specific examples that the Professor compares it to to discuss the significance of the discovery. I also agree with your analysis of themes and think it is very interesting the way you interpret the authors' train of thought.
ReplyDeleteI like that you mentioned the differing views on how Web2.0 will affect higher learning. I have to say that I didn't really notice that they have very opposing ideas on this point until I read your post. While reading Alexander's article, I was more absorbed by his explinations of the developement and possible future of Web2.0 to notice that he believes that it will not take over traditional teaching styles, while Batson's article clearly says the opposite. I like that you pointed this out, because it made me think more about both articles and realize that they do, in fact, have very different ideas of the future of Web2.0 in higher education.
ReplyDeleteI like how you pointed out the comparisons Batson made to the introduction of Web 2.0. I found it odd that he mentioned events that have such negative connotations in our society. We can all agree those days were monumental in the shaping of our country, but why not choose something positive like the day we first landed on the moon?
ReplyDeleteAlso, it was very important to identify the differing backgrounds of the two authors. While Batson analyzes the issue as an educator, Alexander views education and Web 2.0 from merely a research perspective.
I see a lot of people commented on how the writings are different because of the authors' backgrounds. However, I have to say your explanation is the best I've read. I was a bit confused a I read the articles; trying to pick up what each was trying to convey. After reading your post I have a better understanding of each article and am able to appreciate each piece better. This was like a little study group for me. So thanks for the insight!
ReplyDeleteLike I commented in my post, much of their style and argument can be deduced by looking at their respective backgrounds. Since Batson is an English teacher, he will tend to write about how it will affect his lifestyle. While on the other hand, Alexander is part of research, and as you state, he will focus on the history and progression of Web 2.0.
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