Reflections!

My tool box is full indeed. I enjoyed many tools I learned through this training. My favorites were: PhotoStory, Google Docs and Image Generators & Mashups. I plan to use PhotoStory for students' projects on Science or SS.
My thinking has broadened in the sense that students are definitely capable of implementing all these technology into their learning. Sometimes I thought some of the technology was a little too much for them (specially for third graders), but now I believe they are able and ready to be technology literate.

Tool 11

Digital Citizenship is a very important issue that shouldn’t be ignored. Many people take it for granted, but I think teachers need to explicitly teach it and model it. Students that are learning how to use technology must also learn about how to behave when using it.
Three things I would want to make sure my students learn are:
- Netiquette: like on real life, treat people like you want to be treated.
- Security and safety.
- How to communicate clearly: using appropriate language, and to check spelling and grammar.

Tool #10

I have an iPhone and I use many applications every day, but I've never looked into the educational ones- wow, there are so many! I can clearly see how kids could use it in the classroom. I was happy to find out there is a BrainPop application, with videos and all - my kids love those. Also there is a Math Facts Drill that will become useful as well.
I think the students will use the iTouch/iPad as a center or to complete an assignment/project.

Tool #9

I have used Skype before and it's great. I often communicate to parents trough it, and they actually prefer it since they can "see" me. I never thought of using it at school, but I can see how the students would benefit from it. We would only have to find someone to have a video-conversation with!
Jing seems to be useful when communicating with someone online, but I'm not sure how to use it with 3rd graders yet.

Tool #8

Videos are a great tool for learning. My students love watching short videos, so it is great having all these resources to look for them.
Here is a short, simple video that explains the states of matter: solid, liquid and gas.


Here is another useful video about the application of units of measurement

Thing #7

I love PhotoStory, it's just so easy to make! In the classroom I could use it as an end of unit review, or introduction to a new subject. Also, students could use it to create their own stories with drawings, or as a presentation of a topic to their classmates.
I'm posting a PhotoStory I made last year of my sister's puppy.

Tool #6

I don't know if it is just me, but I didn't see much difference between Wikis and Google Docs. They're about the same: internet documents that you can invite people to edit.
Again, students could use a Wiki to collaboratively work on an assignment or project. Also it could be useful among teachers to discuss, share or plan any school matter.