In my technology for educators class this week we read a chapter about Networks and communcation. The more I read, the more confused I became regarding the voculary. This video titled, "The Networked Student," provided me with an alternative way to learn about networking. This youtube vide , also known as a digital storybook, was created by a college student to show how college students can maximize thier use of the interenet, and network with outher learners. I learned more about netowrking by this video, that I did from reading the textbook. Wouldn't this be the same for many of our students? I am anxious to learn how to use and/or create a digital story book to use with my students.
I have recently begun using tumblebooks through the seminole county public library website, http://www.tumblebooks.com/library/asp/home_tumblebooks.asp . Tumble books is a free website offering ebooks for children. I have been amazed , and a little saddened by thier prefence for the ebooks over my personal story time, but I can't blame them. They also enjoy using our listening center with books on CD. It is truly a wonderful thing, to see young children interested in learning to read.
Several other devices used in our classroom include, ipad, touchscreen computer, and a DynaVox. Some of my students have exceptionalities in speech/language or occupational therapy, and these devices allow them to better communicate and particpate in classroom activities. Our school has recently purchased a projector/smart board for our classroom. We are anxiously its arrival. :) This will allow all types of learners to particiapte in our large group lessons and activities. I can't imagine teaching children with excpetionalities without being able to use these wonderful devices. Without the development of these products, not all of my students educational needs could be met.
For more information on assitive technology for Speech/Language services check out ths link:
Shelly, G., Gunter, G., Gunter, R. (2012). Teachers Discovering Computers: Integrating
Technology in a Connected World (7th ed.). Boston, MA: Course Technology, Cengage
Learning.
You Tube. (2008). Retrieved September 13, 2012 from http://www.youtube.com/watch?
v=XwM4ieFOotA&noredirect=1
Katy,
ReplyDeleteI was pretty confused as well. Just when you think you know something about technology, it changes. I guess it is the nature of the beast.
I appreciate your thoughts on the preference of e-books over traditional paperbacks. I have a bookshelf in my room filled with books of all levels and genres...mostly untouched. Students prefer their Kindle or Nook... I have never used these, so I can't say I agree with the allure.
A new piece of technology in my class this year is something called a NEO2. This is a portable keyboard for a student with a fine motor issue. He is allowed to type his replies to written prompts. Spell check can be turned off, so there is no need to worry about him having an unfair advantage.
It's kind of ironic (not sure if that is the correct feeling) that a student with a disability has the most access to technology in my class.
Perhaps Bill Gates could donate some computers.
Good post!
mmike5150
Hi Katy,
ReplyDeletePersonally, I think children prefer to read eBooks rather than traditional books is because eBooks are on the screen. E-reader especially Nook Colors is more attractive to young children, since they can read color from a screen, reading kind like playing games to them. Technology makes reading become a interesting thing which is very helpful to our students in their learning process.
If anything could make learning more fun, we should try it.
Yun
It is great to see all the technology offered to your students. At our school we have the smart boards and I don't know how we ever got along without one. As for your comments on the e-books, as a media specialist I see the benefits of both. My students love the e-books but also want the books. I struggle with this myself. I love to read on my I Pad but at times I just want to sit down with a book in my hands.
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