I found Flickr relatively simple to use as I am familiar with photo sharing on social networks sites such as Facebook. I’m not sure that I would use it for personal use as a I have other means of sharing photos through social networking, however can see the benefits of using it in the classroom. The highly secure privacy settings make it appealing for using in the classroom as teachers can be assured that children will only view images which are appropriate.
I can also see benefits for students with special interests and talents to access the group option to explore topics of interest to them eg dinosaurs, cricket, dancing to name just a few. Students with more specific interests could even start their own group, which could be fun.
It was interesting to read through some of the rules and regulations for students and copyright. I think we often take it for granted that images and material that we can access on line is public, however this made me much more aware of how important it is to respect the creator of the material. Students, particularly those in upper primary who are often researching topics, need to be aware of this too. Flickr can simplify this process as it can be used in the classroom in many creative without child safety or copyright concerns.
Flickr could also used by teachers and schools to safely share information about events such as excursions, sports days, special feast days etc. Here is a photo that I uploaded on my Flickr account showing one of the guest speakers sharing with Year 4 students on Refugee Day.

I think visual images play such an important part in teaching, particularly ESL children, be it Flickr, Powerpoint or a series of photos pasted into a Word document The image that you posted for example could be used in a sequencing activity or an oral retell.
ReplyDeleteI feel flikr is a fantastic tool that can be used in the classroom.Photos can be used for recount activities and as a visual record of school functions such as sports carnivals.
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