3.+Digital+Learning+Tools

= Technology inventory available at Haskell High School as relevant to global education. =

This video shows my vision for the place of technology in my classroom. If you watch it consider just one or two of these ideas that you could use in you classroom. Technology is engaging for students. If you want to get their attention, just tell them to take out their cell phones.

media type="youtube" key="B4g5M06YyVw" height="315" width="420" align="center"

The administration is very supportive of technology usage in the classroom so none of these items are difficult to obtain permission for. However, the technological conditions at the school can be challenging. I have included some tips below.

__ Internet Resources and Student Research Tips __ Prior to beginning a project have an advanced student or one that has taken your class previously attempt a search over the topics to be covered. They should be tasked with identifying valuable resources that are blocked by the server and requesting them to be opened. The request goes to Ms. Jones. Have them state the reason for the page being needed and let Ms. Jones know you will have them sending requests. This will minimize student frustration during online research.

This is a valuable resource that eliminates unreliable sources when students are doing research. It can be found by going to Google and searching for Google Scholar. This resource provides research papers over any topic. They can be technical in nature.
 * Google Scholar

Each student will need to make an account online or on their phone. Have them send an email to you to confirm the account and to make sure you have a copy of their email address. I organize my students by class with a contact list so the can all be sent an email at once. Have students turn in online-based projects or research papers into a Gmail account. In this way they can work on their project anywhere and turn it in from anywhere with an Internet connection, even their phone. This also allows you to send a message or instructions to each student. In this way I was able to extend the due date of my astronomy semester final into Christmas vacation. This opens a direct line of communication for student questions and individualized help. Many students are comfortable and engaged when using this means of communication.
 * Gmail

Google docs can be found by searching for it in Google. It enables students to collaborate on projects in real time. They can do group work and peer review easily. They can also create spreadsheets and presentations then turn them into you via email, or allow you to view their document with an invitation. Google Docs enables the teacher to check student progress and easily read documents on line for grading purposes. Students are able to specify who can view their project and edit it. They will also be able to work on their project from any Internet connection. This enables them to work without having to be at school or accessing the school network. Make prior arrangements to download Skype or other video conferencing program. This will require principal approval and installation by Mr. Bibelhimer, or temporary disabling of Deep Freeze so you can do the install yourself. Prior to the conference date test the connection (video and audio) with the conference host. The school has a web cam with audio available for use. If you are going to have multiple students log in an interactive way it may be necessary to limit other labs usage of the internet due to bandwidth constraints. Discuss this with Mr. Bibelheimer prior to usage.
 * Google Docs
 * Videoconferencing tips

Check all web resources and associated links prior to the date to ensure they are available. Alternatively, a one-way visual connection (they can’t see you) can be established with a cell phone. This does not require a videocam. The school does not have phone jacks in the computer labs so this is best done with your cell phone, (assuming you won’t be over on your minutes).

Student phones can be a valuable resource in class. They can provide calculators, digita cameras, dictionaryies and be used as web browsers. They are useful for documenting projects with video or pictures. Smartphones can also be used as research tools without having to go to the computer lab. When doing group work most groups will have al teast one student with a smartphone and often several. The information they collect can then be emailed to the teacher or sent via bluetooth file transfer if you have a bluetooth equipped device. This information can then be analyzed or otherwise incorporated into student work. For more information about the pros and cons of cell phone use in the classroom visit this McGraw-Hill page. []
 * Cell Phones

A prezi is a visual, zoomable, data presentation tool. Students can work on it form any internet connection, at home or school. They must log in to create an account. If they do not have an email they can first make a gmail account before registering for a Prezi account. Students can email you a link to their prezi for ease of grading. To get a better idea of the features of this program you may want to look at the examples on their home page. []
 * Prezi

This is an extensive list collected by a fellow IREX participant in 2011. The links have not been individually tested. Many are Science focused, but there is something for every teacher.
 * Additional Resource List Compiled By Jennifer Wolfe