Application+of+Tools

Application of Tools
 * Next steps? One thing that I’ve realized is that with the tools easily accessible, technology is can be incorporated. With one of my classes we talked about how we could use the video, rather it be Teachertube, Ustream, or other podcasting assignment, the benefits for them to be able to see excellent examples of work of fellow students from other classes. I really like being able to embed one of the files so that it can be used or posted so students can access it. **
 * Another application of the Web 2.0 tools that I particularly liked was the tour tool on Google Earth. While I always joke with my students that the best way to teach them about history would be to tour the historical sites, which in 7th grade include an impressive itinerary of **** Europe **** . One great big field trip would really help them grasp the history of so much of what we study. However, when we allow tools like Google Earth that allow for virtual 3D images, students tend to look a little longer than they do at books. **
 * While I have already used the wikispaces as a journalism elective class for quite some time, I do not want to forget to mention how useful it has been in bringing technology to a more interactive way for students to experience the feeling of publishing their work. In the traditional print format, few students actually had their work published, so for some, they worked hard, but due to the limitations from having to pay for the printing, few was actually published for the public. Although, I do want to recognize the sentiment from the Blogs about making sure that quality of students’ work is still reinforced so that what is being published reflects the same high standards that we use in final drafts of their work. **
 * The support in integration of technology is key to really making it possible for teachers to incorporate a variety of applications in the classroom. Without a doubt, the accessibility of Randy or Dana, has been a crucial piece in even entertaining the idea of using any of these Web 2.0 tools, or any other technology issues that arise throughout the year. While many of us support moving education into the 21st century, it can only be done if districts understand the crucial role of technology support is available. If there is one thing that stands in the way of continuing to incorporate innovative ways to use technology it is the lack of time on a teacher’s time to work through the kinks that often arise with technology. **