During this year of residency, I was challenged to bring technology into the classroom. Although I have worked with computers, since I was a young child, my thinking was limited to Microsoft Word, Powerpoint, and Excel. However, with the help of a technology class, I am proud to say my knowledge now includes iPads, Chrome books, Elmo projectors, YouTube videos, Xtranormal presentations, various educational applications, and more. Below you will find a view of the programs I experimented with.
INFORMATIONAL BOOK TALK
BOOK: Throuogh My Eyes by Ruby Bridges
Below is my first encounter with the program known as Xtranormal. For my technology class, during the summer, we were instructed to create an Xtranormal video that discussed Gagne instructional model versus the WHERETO model in a creative manner. The goal of the assignment was to help us become familiar with Xtranormal as a way to add to the instruction in the classroom. Both of these models can be used when teaching students and/or planning engaging lessons. Below, you will be able to view the creative skills of my cohort members and me. In the future, I plan on using Xtranormal as an option for a project in my classroom. Given that I work with first grade students, I do not know if they will understand how to operate the program. However, it is worth a try, and I am up for the challenge.
Another encounter with educational technology, during the summer, was with Voicethread. For this assignment, I had to examine the idea of TPACK OR Technological, Pedagogical Content Knowledge. In short, TPACK identifies the knowledge teachers need in order to teach, effectively, with technology. A diagram of TPACK can be found below. If unfamiliar with the idea of TPACK, take the time to check out the voicethread presentation. In the future, I plan on using Voicethread for students who do not necessarily enjoy standing up in front of people and delivering verbal presentations. Also, I plan on having students use Voicethread as a way to encourage collaboration.
