Visualizing with Technology

I think visualizing technology is so important both inside out of the classroom because it has the tools to influence us in many ways. I personally am a more visual learner, so I prefer to have visual tools like movies, PowerPoints, images, etc. to help me better understand what I am learning. Visualizing technology helps students make conclusions about what they have learned, and tie up any loose ends/ answer questions they may have had. I strongly believe in visualizing technology because of the many benefits it has to offer us. Whether it is used in the classroom, or for advertising, these visual aids teach us something new every day. These visual technologies are essential especially in a world, like today, where society relies on technology.

Inside the classroom tools like movies and videos are just one of the many visualizing technologies that provide students with another way of thinking and visualizing a lesson or idea. PowerPoint is very helpful visualizing technology tool that can make learning and teaching both easier and faster. PowerPoint allows for teacher to move through lesson topics quickly, as opposed to using older equipment like an overhead projector where you have to continuously erase, and switch out slides. Computers and projectors are clearly the basic necessities for having a smooth running classroom and having these tools are great practice for students when they will enter the working world. All in all, visualizing technology gives teachers and students the freedom to learn in a fun environment.

Podasting

Podcasting is a very unique way to share new information. It is great for subscribers who want to keep up with a certain show, created by ordinary people, without the use of major media. It is helpful because once you subscribe to a channel or website, the new shows will automatically down load to a computer, mp3 player, or any other handheld device. Teachers can use podcasts for a free way to further engage their students in the lesson by subscribing to an educational web site to receive live shows. For example, if a teacher is starting a new lesson series about a specific topic, he/she could use a podcast for daily or weekly discussions or videos. Also, students could be assigned to listen to podcasts on their ipods/laptops the be quizzed over the material in class.
Podcasting is different than the other web 2.0 tools we discussed earlier because unlike the other tools, podcasting, once subscribed, is continuous and uploads automatically. Also, it is more "personal" as it is stated in the "P" of podcasting. Much like DVRing a series on tv, podcasting isn't necessarily a one time thing. It can be a weekly subject that could go along with the lesson for that week or month or however long. It is similar to the other web 2.0 tools obviously because it is used through technology, but is meant to be shared. Like the other tools, it is readily available for students to download on any device. This is great for students when they are on-the-go and may need to listen to the lesson for the day instead of read it in a book or sit down and do homework.
I do have an ipod and if I was to listen to educational podcasts, for the benefit of my students I would either use my ipod to play the podcasts into a speaker, or assign podasts as homework or do both. I think online communication is beneficial to students because they need as much practice with technology as they can get because of the overwhelming number of employers looking for tech savvy employees. Also, it can be quite fun and different to add something new to the lesson. Rather than doing so much book work, why not allow for students to listen to a lesson, message, or idea through a podcast made by myself or someone else? I think this will engage more students and get them excited to learn.

Web 2.0

This assignment  taught me about the many tools available online to better our lessons and activities in the classroom. The Wiki is a helpful tool for posting online discussions because it allows students to add their input about the lesson and help other students through posting ideas and questions. It also  helps organize and regulate discussions. Social Bookmarking was another helpful online website we examined in this assignment that helps teachers keep track of all their favorite webpages. This website helps teachers to organize links for in lessons in class such as videos, and websites and also allows for teachers to save helpful sites the might use as reference in the future. Voice Thread is a great tool for really engaging students in an online discussion through using your voice and posting pictures. It is great for summarizing a lecture and allowing students to refresh their memory about the lesson earlier that day.
All of these web 2.0 tools are so helpful to students, especially in today society. It is so important to students to practice computer skills religiously, besides status updating, because most jobs require some computer skill. When teachers involve technology in their lessons, they are preparing students for the future in college and in the work place. The Wiki is a great way for students to practice safe online interaction and challenge themselves to think on their own without the presence of a teacher at hand. Also, it keeps students responsible for doing their work outside of the classroom and keeps them engaged. Even though school is limited to a strict schedule, learning should be continuously practiced. Social Bookmarking is helpful mainly to teachers because it helps them to organize their favorite webpages and any thoughts or ideas they have planned for a lesson. Voice Thread is unique because it engages students on a higher level by hearing the teachers voice and allowing the teacher to lead the discussion.