Along with the continuance of our picture taking expedition (which I've come to enjoy), week 2 was full of worthwhile activities. For example, the readings from Presentation Zen made some very clear, informative points on how to give a presentation that people will remember. I particularly liked how credibility and simplicity made their way on to the list of "sticky" concepts. I also enjoyed looking up the different mathematical/technological lessons. It's always good to expand your arsenal of lesson plans, learning from others who have tried and succeeded in the past. However, what I enjoyed working with the most would have to be the Digital Stories from Voicethread.
I was a little skeptical at first, but it really wasn't that difficult to use. I found it very interesting to work on the preparation aspect (away from the computer mind you), then converting it to the actual presentation, audio and all. I could certainly see this type of digital storytelling being used in my classroom as a means of making presentations in the event that I cannot attend class. Also, I can see myself using this site for several different types of group projects.
I too enjoyed voicethread. I also don't know if I will be able to do the analog preparation for presentations. I rarely write things out by hand and I would find it to be a waste to have to retype it all after writing it out. I do however like the visual and kinesthetic aspect of the analog method. It is nice to physically take an idea on a sticky note and move it from one spot to another. Do you plan on using this analog method? Will you have your students use this method as well?
ReplyDeleteI am interested in your suggestion of using digital storytelling as a way to present to your class when you can't be there. This seems to me to be a much better way to use class time rather than turning the class over to a substitute teacher. Could you use some of the other tech tools we've been examining to then give the students an activity that would build on the lesson you presented via a digital story?
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