Final Thoughts

This course has taught me to be patient with learning new technology to use in my classroom.  I have found that there are several ways to incorporate technology into my classroom without a lot of extra work.  Many of the tools we have discussed and practiced are now being used by my students in their free time rather than mindless computer games.  They enjoy sharing their new learning with the group, even when unrelated to what we are doing in class.  The new tools I have been sharing with them have allowed for more creativity in their sharing.

Literacy Project

My students used Animoto to create videos sharing their learning on a science topic of interest.  They were graded based on their ability to research student created questions on a topic of their interest, organization of their notes, and citations of their references.  While this was the first time using Animoto for all of my students, they were very excited to learn how it worked and have started to ask to create videos of their interests... just for fun!

I hope to be able to do this project again later in the year when their research skills are stronger to allow for more information to be included.  Some of my students joined the class late and were not required to include as much information as others.

****WARNING**** the last video is about snakes...

Digital Story

After much difficulty with getting imovie to work the way I wanted it to, I have a final copy of my digital tour! I frequently have new students in the Support Center and each year get a few from the elementary level.  I thought it would be a great way for new students to feel welcome in the group as well as give information about the program/visuals of the building.  Our building is very large and confusing to new staff and students, so leading the way to the classroom is the most important part!

I will be sharing this video with the elementary Support Center teachers to show the students they are sending along to me next year.  With high anxiety around transitioning to the middle school level, this can help students feel more comfortable before even stepping foot into the building. 

A few of my current students helped out with the recording, and were thrilled to be a part of the video.  They were very proud of their ability to read fluently and listen to themselves before approving their clip for the final product.  Reading fluency as well as voice intonation/volume are goals of several students within my group.  It was a great experience... I hope you like it :)