Technology is the here and now.
"I don't use technology in the classroom because it is a buzzword or trend. I use it because connecting my kids with the world will prepare them for the future." - Unknown. I have compiled a list of wonderful websites and tech tools that I believe should be integrated into the classroom in order to enhance learning and create an actively engaged classroom environment. As of May 2017, I have been accepted into Stockton University's Master of Arts in Instructional Technology graduate program. I am excited to learn even more about technology integration within the classroom and how students can benefit from learning with technological devices.
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Google is one of my favorite technological tools for the classroom. Google Docs, Blogger, Slides, Forms, Hangouts, Sites, etc. can all be used. I have developed numerous presentations and quizzes using Google. Below I have embedded a Google Slides I made about the elements of art. You can then take a short quiz based upon the information in the slides by clicking here. This will take you to a Google Forms I created.
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Screencast-O-Matic & The Flipped ClassroomThrough my education courses at Stockton University, I have become very familiarized with Screencast-O-Matic. This is essentially a free screen recording tool that allows people to display their computer screen while talking about its contents. It can be used to provide directions or even teach a lesson. I am a big advocate of the Flipped Classroom concept. I find this to be a very effective teaching model, and it can also help involve parents and guardians in their child's learning. Screencast-O-Matic is a fantastic tool to help aid in the Flipped Classroom Model. If you click on the video to the right, you will be able to watch me teach a Flipped art lesson! |
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iPads and Chromebooks
The use of iPads and Chromebooks in the classroom allow the students to think of learning as being fun and exciting. These pieces of technology aid in the concept of gamification in the classroom, causing students to become engaged in a lesson. My 1st grade students frequently utilized the Dreambox app during math centers. I attended a Professional Development seminar on the website titled EdCite, which makes formative assessment easily accessible and effective. I have also researched the following iPad applications and hope to incorporate them into future lessons: Aurasma, DoINK, and Socrative. |
YouTubeYoutube is a fantastic source of technology that can almost always be integrated into a lesson. It is extremely effective when used as an anticipatory set. Creative educational videos draw the students in and immediately capture their attention. I create my own YouTube for my art students in order to capture their attention and give them a laugh! Learning can be fun AND funny, as well as educational.
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Additional TechnologyThere is so much technology out there that can be integrated into the classroom. In addition to what I have already mentioned, there is Prezi, Glogster, and Storybird that can be used by the teacher and the students to create presentations or projects. Social media sites, such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram can even be used! My instagram, @colorfulcreators, allows others to view what's going on in my art room! Educators can also use technology to improve upon their own teaching. During my student teaching semester, I utilized SWIVL technology and software to video record myself teaching. I would then re-watch the videos and critique myself, determining what I did well and what I could improve upon for next time. Two Prezi presentations I made can be viewed below. |
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