My first Online Classroom expierence!

This weeks class (October 25), was definitely held a lot different from I've become accustomed too! My instructors making the decision to host a full class session online was extremely foreign to me but after experiencing it for the first time I love it! Seeing how we (students) were able to actively engage in conversation with our instructors as they taught, as well as having meaningful discussion with our peers about what we were learning was fascinating to me. This is to me, is just another mind blowing way of seeing how vastly technology is improving! As a future educator myself I found this to be an extremely beneficial learning tool for students who may have extreme illnesses that may prevent them from coming to call regularly, or for my students who may not participate actively in class, this could be an alternative for participation since you can chat while the teacher is instructing! The one down fall I have is, the fact that I plan on teaching in an urban setting. At times it is hard to get the neccessities in the classroom (enough books for the entire class, unlimited copies for assignments, etc) so my fear is that not all my students would have access to resources like this. Granted it is more common, almost required that every home has some sort of internet access (computer, smartphone, etc), it is a harsh reality that not everyone can afford that luxery! I would definately use this online tool as a resourse for students who may not be able to physically attend class. I was literally able to sit in my bed, with pajamas on and listen to the lecture as well as actively participate in discussion... just great! Seeing the benefit myself, I believe some of my special education students would enjoy and benefit from it as well! I'm always open to helpful alternative approaches to learning, especially for students with special needs.