2.0 Technologies
"We need technology in every classroom and in every student and teacher's hand, because it is the pen and the paper of our time, and it is the lens through which we experience much of our world." - David Warlick
Click here to view my Voice Thread presentation on the Lost Boys of the Sudan
Click below to view the Prezi on my Integrated Unit Plan
Reflection
Today I learned how to use a new 2.0 technology called Voice Thread. There are many benefits of using this technology in the classroom and with different age groups. For younger ages, this tool could enhance learning and comprehension through the comment tools that Voice Thread provides. The different modes of comments are a great way for students to explore how they can put together a presentation as well as comment on a peers' presentation. For middle school students, I think this tool would be good to teach elements of a story or a particular historical genre. Students can weave together a narrative to demonstrate the importance of human connection. I believe when students are exposed to another way of presenting information and concepts, they are more likely to be vested in their learning outcomes.
I found Voice Thread to be very user friendly and easy to navigate. I believe middle level students will also find it easy to use and navigate. I would demonstrate how to use this tool through a tutorial and then just let them explore it on their own. I believe we sometimes learn best when we are able to explore, make mistakes, and have small successes along the way. I could definitely see using this tool, a Prezi, Glogster, or Toondoo, in the classroom as an effective way for me to communicate information to students and vice versa.
I also created a Prezi to present the highlights of my unit plan. I had used Prezi before so I was somewhat familiar. However, I through this class, I was able to pick up more tricks along the way, like using the space bar to go from one slide to the next. I also learned how to manipulate information on a slide by right clicking and using the options provided. Another point of learning that emerged during this exercise was the fact that voice-over recordings can be added to slides. I never knew that. Although I didn't try it for this presentation, I will be sure to do so in the future. I believe Prezi is a great tool for students and teachers to demonstrate their learning because it is easy to use and navigate. I plan on using both Voice Thread and Prezi in my classroom.
In terms of Bloom's Taxonomy, I believe the use of both Prezi and Voice Thread demonstrates applying, analyzing, and creating. It shows applying through the use of editing slides. These tools also demonstrate analysis through mashing and validating. In addition, the 2.0 technologies mentioned above show creating as well because students have the ability to structure these tools to their needs and likes.
I found Voice Thread to be very user friendly and easy to navigate. I believe middle level students will also find it easy to use and navigate. I would demonstrate how to use this tool through a tutorial and then just let them explore it on their own. I believe we sometimes learn best when we are able to explore, make mistakes, and have small successes along the way. I could definitely see using this tool, a Prezi, Glogster, or Toondoo, in the classroom as an effective way for me to communicate information to students and vice versa.
I also created a Prezi to present the highlights of my unit plan. I had used Prezi before so I was somewhat familiar. However, I through this class, I was able to pick up more tricks along the way, like using the space bar to go from one slide to the next. I also learned how to manipulate information on a slide by right clicking and using the options provided. Another point of learning that emerged during this exercise was the fact that voice-over recordings can be added to slides. I never knew that. Although I didn't try it for this presentation, I will be sure to do so in the future. I believe Prezi is a great tool for students and teachers to demonstrate their learning because it is easy to use and navigate. I plan on using both Voice Thread and Prezi in my classroom.
In terms of Bloom's Taxonomy, I believe the use of both Prezi and Voice Thread demonstrates applying, analyzing, and creating. It shows applying through the use of editing slides. These tools also demonstrate analysis through mashing and validating. In addition, the 2.0 technologies mentioned above show creating as well because students have the ability to structure these tools to their needs and likes.