Journal Assignment #8

Transforming school Communities
Creating Dialgoue Using Web 2.0 Tools
by Helen Soule

One-way communication systems are no longer viable in school communities. This particular article expresses an earnest cry to school communities about using Web 2.0 tools as a way by which to transition to a two-way communication system. Soule lists the following three components as "critical components of communication" in school systems: advocacy of vision, networking to build formal and informal support, and collaboration with diverse external and internal constituencies.

The following are steps to transforming school communities:

1. Familiarize Yourself with the Tools: It's important to be acquainted with the tools before one can incorporate them with their district's communication plans.

2. Send a Clear Message: Consistency is very important in creating a successful communication plan.

3. Know the Audience: "Use multiple vehicles to gather constituency input and gain an understanding of their attitudes, preferences, and ideas."

4. Match Vehicle, Audience, and Message: The basic message should not necessarily change but the way in which it is delivered should be tailored in a way that fits each audience.

5. Create Opportunities to Educate: "Communication is part education." When people have knowledge about new ideas/ways of communicating thay are more receptive to them.

6. Use Multiple Vehicles: "Publish information in multiple formats across several platforms to increase the chances that the message will reach the intended audience."

7. Make Way for Interaction: Move from one-way communication systems to two-way communication systems that allow for collaboration with parents, students, teachers, and community members.

8. Advocate the Vision: Promotes an unprecedented accountability.

9. Network to Build Support: "Networking through technology can form powerful alliances,
connecting leaders and experts locally, nationally and internationally."

10. Collaborate with Constituents

Q1: What benefits would such a transformation have on any individual classroom?

A1: With such communication tools being used this could make room for less lack of understanding as it relates to expectations of students in behavior and assignments. It also makes room for parents to be better aware of what's taking place in their child's academic career. Communication is further made accessible between students, teachers and parents making a more sucessful collaboration possible.

Q2: What could be some reasons why school communities are not making this transformation?

A2: Lack of knowldge. Lack of funds. Immobility. The list could go on, but I believe these are the most likely reasons.