Podcasting at the Media Center

As a librarian it is exciting to find different ways of engaging students and making learning fun.  When I worked at the public library, we always had different themes for every month.  One of the themes celebrated during the month of March is Women's History.  And although we can use print and electronic resources to teach about women's history, using podcasts can really captivate the students' attention. 
This is one of the reasons I like NPR.  It has a variety of good podcasts and I particularly like the Tell Me More About Women's History collection.  This collection of podcasts tell about the lives of influential women in history and the significance of their accomplishments.
I would definitely use this collection of podcasts to enhance a month long celebration of women's accomplishments in history.  I would also have the students build on these podcasts by creating podcasts of their own, about other historical women.

Going Global With ePals

While navigating through the ePals  website, I kept thinking about global collaboration. 
This resource gives a new meaning to the term "pen pals".  In our technologically fueled world this FREE resource puts similar minds together, even while countries apart.   And while ePals offers many opportunities for collaboration, I found an useful feature for learning about cultural differences.

 

The feature I found most useful was "Choose a project.  Find a classroom.  Collaborate!" It was wonderful to see how students can work together and learn from each other.  There are many countries to select and the ideas for projects are very interesting.  One particular project idea I liked was "why do we celebrate?".  This project is a fantastic resource for teaching about cultures and foreign languages.  With this project students can find out first hand about a cultural celebration by asking a student from another country.  

As a librarian, this feature would be beneficial to assist students while they are learning about different countries.  I would also take it a step further and integrate an ePals project with a class to bring awareness to multiculturalism.  Having students establish communication and collaborating on online projects can enhance their technology skills and prepare them for working with more Web 2.0 tools.

More Digital Stories

Make a video of your own at Animoto.
 
In a previous post I discussed the many ways digital storytelling can be used in the classroom.  Using digital storytelling is a great way to have your students acquire and use technology skills, practice on their writing and be creative.  Web tools for digital storytelling include Animoto, Slideroll and Stupeflix.  All of these sites are great for creating short stories with music, photos, and text.

There are many ways of using digital storytelling for teaching.  Students in English class could re-enact scenes from a book and arrange them as a short story.  (An activity such as this one would demonstrate their comprehension of the material being read in class).  Include Poetry in your slides along relevant images to increase understanding of the writer's work.  And instead of writing assignments, encourage the students to use digital storytelling when writing essays on vacations and class trips.

Include the students' ideas in what they would like to create with digital storytelling.  Have them brainstorm in groups and create a "storyboard" for their project.  If you are teaching History include photos from your travels and discuss the sights with your students.

Using digital stories in the classroom can open a whole new world for many students.  Here teachers have the opportunity to bring cities and countries the students have never visited.  It is a creative way of starting great discussions with your students.  I guarantee they will love using these digital storytelling tools.

The Art of Digital Storytelling II

The story that I created above included my own photos from a trip to Maplewood Park in Rochester, New York.  I love roses of all colors and this Summer the park had an abundance of pink ones.  While at the park I was lucky to observe other things that made that day very special. 

Using Web tools (Bookr) like the one I used to create the digital book above is useful for interpreting books, creating journal entries, personal stories, basic research projects and just plain fun stories.
Students can be encouraged to create stories that are relevant to them, but I also would use this Web tool for enhancing learning in the classroom. 

Ideas and Objectives:

• Create digital stories of summaries of books through photos.  Students can "dress up" and photograph pivotal scenes from a book for interpretation. (Objective: Students will achieve comprehension and understanding of plots in a book or story). 

• Create personal stories through uploaded photos.  Students can create a book about their sport seasons, award ceremonies, or significant celebrations in their life using writing and photos.  (Objective:  Students will increase their writing and technology skills). 

• Create research projects with text and image. For example:  Art students can summarize the works of an artist by creating a digital book about the artist's works.  (Objective:  Students will increase their critical thinking skills in adding relevant content to their presentations for Art, Biology, History, Languages, etc.).

There are many ways of using digital books in the classroom.  Bookr provides a digital book making site that students can use to create a digital story that can be fun, educational and meaningful as well.

The Art of Digital Storytelling

 

 by  athos[hun] 

                                                         

 Creating stories digitally is a great way of expressing one's creativity.  Everything we see today can be recreated or enhance through digital means.  I recently saw an online photo that had been enhanced with digital coloring.  The effects made the Fall foliage of the trees seem brighter and almost surreal.  The ending result was an image super enhanced by the imagination and emotion of the photographer. 

The same can be said of digital storytelling.  It is "a short, first person video-narrative created by combining recorded voice, still and moving images, and music or other sounds".  Using digital storytelling can be entertaining and creative but it also involves an emotional component.  My digital stories often involve stories of my family.  I've included events and celebrations that have wonderful memories attached.  However, the ideas for creating digital stories are not limited to personal events.  One can create historical time lines and explore significant events in history through the use of digital storytelling.

Historical time lines can become more real and meaningful when enhanced with digital content.  Historical events such as September 11th, the Civil Rights Movement and the Challenger Space missions were captured by the University of Houston's Educational Uses of Digital Storytelling presentation.  These images combined with audio and sound go beyond the traditional television newscast.  According to the narrator, "in the school setting, students can create their own time machine".  What an incredible learning opportunity!  To be able to explore and/or create historical events through images, audio and narration.  This is a definite attraction for technically and non-technically inclined students. 

However, as with anything created online, there has to be education concerning copyright issues and trademarks.  "Students should be aware of obtaining permission for materials obtained from someone else.  And should also give proper credit to the author of those materials used".
It is also important to note, that students should be aware of what types of personal information is shared when creating digital stories.  The cautionary tale of what goes on the Internet, stays on the Internet forever rings very true in this aspect.
All in all, Digital Storytelling as a Web tool is an outstanding way in which students can learn and express their creative styles.  

My Re-Introduction to the World of Twitter

When I first began to use Twitter, it was to "keep up" with organizations that were of interest to me.  I seldom used it and did not know the many ways in which Twitter could be used educationally. Clearly there is more to Twitter than meets the eye.  And I just found many great ways of putting Twitter to use within the classroom setting and beyond. 

The amount of people who use Twitter grows more and more each day.  Fortunately for me, many educators are finding original and interesting ways of integrating micro-blogging in the classroom.  28 Creative Ways Teachers Are Using Twitter has great ideas for educators interested in combining Twitter and the classroom.  

 

Some of the ideas were the following:

• Having students Tweet instead of raising their hands in class.  This could help students with disability issues.  It can also help students have the confidence to participate in class.

• Twitter can be used by educators to give class announcements.  (If the professor is late, there is a class visitor or changes in the class schedule.  All of these topics can be announced via Twitter).

• Students can notify their teachers about their completed assignments.

• Preschool teachers can keep parents involved in their child's day by Tweeting daily activities.

And while the list goes on I thought of other ways to use Twitter in the educational setting.  My ideas were:

• PTA meetings could be summarized and Tweeted to parents who could not attend meetings.  

• Principals could Tweet positive activities going on live at their schools (we are always focusing on negative student behavior)

• Teachers could Tweet vocabulary words to their students relevant to what they are learning and students could Tweet full sentences back, using the vocabulary words.  

There is so much possibilities for learning with Twitter.  And one is never to old to learn something new.
Take me for example.  As I mentioned before, I am fairly new to Twitter so it was interesting for me to read What is a Hashtag? 

This article "schooled" me on how to use the famous # sign.  Needless to say I put the Hashtag to use while searching on Twitter and had a better success on my results.  I still have not used it on a Tweet, but I am planning to use it while at a conference.  Wish me luck!

Classroom 2.0

The social networking group that would definitely be useful to me is Classroom 2.0.  It has so many resources and helpful tips for everything technology wise in the classroom.  The site combines Web 2.0 resources with teacher know-how.  You can find everything from support for new teachers, lesson plan ideas, ways of using Google Earth in the classroom to supportive links of other educational networking groups.  I will be reading and researching the support resources offered to new teachers.  Through Classroom 2.0, I have already found a social networking group for librarians.  Hooray!

Connecting Others to The World

One of our goals as educators is to share knowledge and help students develop critical thinking minds.  We also want our students to grow and expand their knowledge of the world we live in.  Consider the following  analogy, teachers are like radio towers and students are the radio stations.  And what do radio towers provide? Radio towers provide radio stations with the power to be connected to the world.  However the only way we can provide a good connection to our students is by staying current and relevant in today's digital world.  The importance of continual learning was reiterated again by George Siemens' Connectivism: A Learning Theory for the Digital Age.

I liked Siemens' concept that "learning is a continual process, lasting for a lifetime".  And as educators it is our responsibility to remain connected to the digital world through education.  No longer can we use the excuse of schedules and location because online classes and work related experience credit offer alternative ways to "attend class".   The nature of knowledge is changing and the way of obtaining that knowledge is changing too.  According to Siemens, "the average individual has to continue to stay current over a course of a lifetime".   Imagine that!  A lifetime of learning.  In other words, a teacher's education should not end with a teacher's certificate or a master's degree.  It should continue (with emphasis on the word "continue") to grow, in order to provide students and fellow educators fresh and new ideas.

Resourceful Website Helps Educators Stay Connected

When I read Steven W. Anderson's post on the blog, Blogging About The Web 2.0 Connected Classroom, I thought he had read my mind.  His post, Find New Resources For Your Classroom With eduTecher gives information about a great online resource that educators can use.  As educators we are always trying to find new information for our students and ways to use technology.  However, we don't always have the time to sit searching through the numerous websites that offer such information.

Enter the website eduTecher.  This website contains a generous amount of technology resources, educational links and even tutorial videos for teachers.  The resources are free and can be used by anyone.  The eduTecher site contains so much information, it has filters such as grades and subject.  I plan to spend some quality time exploring this exciting website. 

Exciting News From Our Neighbors Up North!

It is always exciting when schools decide to put the focus on providing the best education possible for their students.  Such is the case with the New Brunswick public school system.  In the video 21st Century Education in New Brunswick, Canada, the words appearing on the screen speak volumes. 

New Brunswick's approach to preparing their students for the future begins at a young age.  The schools take advantage of the fact that 2nd graders can "keyboard 60 words a minute", text, use Twitter and Facebook.  They provide (anytime, anywhere) accessible learning for their students.  They make community service a high school graduation requirement and the teachers stay relevant to keep the students involved and engaged.  And the results of these efforts?  The schools will produce young men and women prepared for the world and full of knowledge acquired through experiences and applied opportunity.

I really liked the ideas in this video.  Some of the ideas were innovative concepts that I have not yet seen in schools.  I hope we can take notice and begin to prepare our students for a better future. 
Take a look and judge for yourself.

Ready for the Brave New World

As I read the first chapter of Robert J. Blake's book, Brave New Digital Classroom (Technology and Foreign Language Learning) I was impressed by the author's idea that "technology requires constant updating and continuing education".. (Blake, 2008)  In this statement the author was referring to the teachers and the need for language professionals to keep current with technology.

One would think that as an educator the need to be current with technology would be automatic.  Yet, there are still teachers who are convinced that "change" is not necessary to keep learning current.  For others it is , "just fear of being replaced by technology".  (page13)  However, the author is not so sympathetic to these teachers who are standing by the sidelines in "fear" while technology continues to advance.  He offers a "rational response to their question of whether or not they will be replaced by stating in fact that they will, but by teachers who embrace technology". (page 14).

In a world that is becoming smaller by the use of online communication, educators must continue to expand their horizons educationally.  Technology can be somewhat intimidating for those unfamiliar with it, but there are many opportunities to become knowledgeable through practice.  Many students today text, use email, tweet, and use the Internet for online resources.  And all these resources if use properly can enhance the learning experience in the classroom.  We as educators must set the standards and lead by example.

So, if you are an educator who has been on the fence about getting involved with technology, begin with small steps.  Take time to explore different online resources for documents, such as Googledocs.  Or if you are more adventurous, create a Wiki or blog for your classroom.  The amount of resources on the Web is vast, but small steps can lead you into a "brave new world".

Mod 2: Internet Safety: NetSmartz Response

In my previous post, an issue was found with the wording used in NetSmartz's Internet safety pledge.  I removed the pledge and contacted NetSmartz for clarification on their statement.  This is the pledge that caused the objection.

1. I WILL BE CAREFUL WHEN MEETING ONLINE FRIENDS IN PERSON.
I agree to
• ask my parent or guardian's permission before going
• have a parent or guardian accompany me
• meet in a public place

http://www.netsmartz.org/Resources/Pledges

The objection was to the way this pledge is represented.  It seems as though it is encouraging the meeting of online friends in person.  (A very scary thought)
Hower, a NetSmartz representative contacted me immediately and this was their response.

Dear Ms. Diaz,

Thank you for your recent inquiry about the NetSmartz Internet Safety Pledge. One of our goals at NetSmartz is to help children be safer in an increasingly digital world.  This includes a realistic and cautious approach to meeting online friends in person. While it is age-appropriate to teach young children not to meet face-to-face with anyone from the Internet, the same is not necessarily true for teens. Therefore, you will see that the rules for each age group are adjusted to fit their needs.

It is becoming much more commonplace for teens and young adults to form friendships with people they have first met online. Teens participate in multiple online communities that sometimes extend to the offline world. For example, gamers may meet up for a game launch; fans may meet up at conventions or book signings; teens “friend” each other’s friends on Facebook, etc. As they become young adults, they may begin to use online dating sites.

The Internet safety rule you are referring to is intended to prepare teens to navigate these digital relationships in a safer manner. Very specific guidelines are included in the rule to accomplish this. The full text of the rule is:

I will be careful when meeting online friends in person.  
      I agree to:

·         ask my parent or guardian’s permission

·         have a parent or guardian accompany me

·         meet in a public place

Teens who follow these guidelines are learning how to practice safer behavior in a realistic manner that is compatible with their digital lifestyles.

I hope this information is helpful and that you will continue using NetSmartz resources to educate your students about being safer online. Please let me know if you have any further questions or concerns.

Sincerely,

Michelle Eastwood
Educational Writer
NetSmartz Workshop
A Program of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children
(703) 778-6468
MEastwood@ncmec.org

I thank Ms. Eastwood, for her prompt reply and clarification of NetSmartz's Internet Safety Pledge.
And I encourage middle and high school students to discuss these pledges with their parent or guardian.

Mod 2: Internet Safety Tips for students

Hello again,
   Every student should follow their school's Internet Usage Guidelines.  It often involves having a parent sign a permission slip that give the student access to the Internet.  The parent decides if the student can participate in online activities within the school and classroom.
   Students also need to learn to be proactive and follow their classroom or library media's Internet usage rules.  I will post some ideas that help children be safe while online.
NetSmartz, a program from the National Center of Missing and Exploited Children has great ideas for keeping safe whether you are surfing the Internet or blogging.  Let's take a look.

Safety Pledges:
Primary
Internet Safety Rules

   1. I will tell my trusted adult if anything makes me feel sad, scared, or confused.
   2. I will ask my trusted adult before sharing information like my name, address, and phone number.
   3. I won't meet face-to-face with anyone from the Internet.
   4. I will always use good netiquette and not be rude or mean online.


Intermediate
Internet Safety Rules

   1. I will tell my trusted adult if anything makes me feel sad, scared, or confused.
   2. I will ask my trusted adult before sharing information like my name, address, and phone number.
   3. I won't meet face-to-face with anyone from the Internet.
   4. I will always use good netiquette and not be rude or mean online.

Middle and High School

1. I WILL THINK BEFORE I POST.

I agree not to post information and images that could put me at risk, embarrass me, or damage my future, such as

    * cell & home phone numbers
    * home address
    * sexual messages
    * inappropriate pictures and videos

2.  I WILL RESPECT OTHER PEOPLE ONLINE.

I will not

    * post anything rude, offensive, or threatening
    * send or forward images and information that might embarrass, hurt, or harass someone
    * take anyone's personal information and use it to damage his or her reputation

3.  I WILL PROTECT MYSELF ONLINE.

If someone makes me feel uncomfortable or if someone is rude or offensive, I will

    * not respond
    * save the evidence
    * tell my parent, guardian, or another trusted adult
    * report to the website, cell phone company, CyberTipline.com, or the police

the Internet safety pledges can be found here:

http://www.netsmartz.org/Resources/Pledges

NOTE:  I removed the original pledge #3 due to the wording.  (It deals with meeting online friends). It is my understanding that the pledge dealt with meeting friends known by the student.  But after reading one of my classmate's comment on the "safety issue" of the pledge, I removed it.  I sent a message to the National Center for Exploited Children in regards to the wording and hope they will respond to my question regarding the pledge.  If there is an answer to my email I will post it in future posts.

And for additional information on being safe Online, go to 
http://www.netsmartzkids.org/

Mod 2: Joining the Blogsphere

Hi and welcome to my blog.  This is my first blog that deals with technology and its benefits for students, teachers and parents.  I am a new school media specialist and my classroom will be the school library. 

   This week, I would like to introduce you to the world of blogs.  Blogs are according to Will Richardson, “easily created and update-able websites that allow an author or authors to publish instantly to the Internet from any Internet connection” (Richardson, 2009).  Any one who has an Internet connection can make and use a blog. 

    There are blogs on cats, dogs, movies, books, cooking, and many other topics.  In the K-12 school setting, blogs can be useful for journaling about books read, writing book reviews, keeping up with class assignments/class projects and so much more. The possibilities are endless.

    There are a few ways I would take advantage of using blogs in my school library.  Here are three:

• Use a school media center blog to keep students, teachers and parents aware of what is happening in the library
• Have the students create their own blog on their own or work in teams of two.
• Have the students write responses to a book we read during story time.  They would also interact through their blogs to comment on books we are exploring and reading.

The above ideas would meet the following New York State Standards

Standard 2:   Language for Literary Response and Expression

As speakers and writers, students will use oral and written language that follows the accepted conventions of the English language for self-expression and artistic creation.

Standard 4:   Language for Social Interaction

Students will use oral and written language that follows the accepted conventions of the English language for effective social communication with a wide variety of people.

Standard 5 - Technology Education

Students will apply technological knowledge and skills to design, construct, use, and evaluate products and systems to satisfy human and environmental needs.

We have barely scratched the surface on the advantages of blogging.  Stay tuned for more...