Day 5 (Friday!)

My Thoughts on Day 5: Web 2.0 Tools

Today we examined various softwares in Web 2.0 that could be used in the classroom.  I have seen some presentations created with Prezi previously but had never tried it myself.  I just created an account, so I'll get to work tackling it ;)  I also really liked checking out Flipsnack.  Below, I have embedded a pdf file I converted using flipsnack today.  The pdfs look more attractive and easier to read in the book/flip format.  I also agree that it creates a nice final product that students could use to show off their work.  Symbaloo looks enormously useful!  Right now my bookmarks are a mess - this tool will help me organize the web pages I use for various projects, dividing them by topic/project. I have typically been reluctant to use new tools that required me to create an account or download a plugin.  However, it seems I have been missing out on some useful tools, so I will be rethinking my attitude!  

Finally, I enjoyed our discussion of TPACK, or the knowledge that teachers need to have to successfully use technology in the classroom.  We talked about how teachers should start their lesson planning by being familiar with the proposed content, or having an awareness of the curriculum (what needs to be taught).  Stemming from this, they should have pedagogical knowledge of the kinds of activities that will allow them to cover the content effectively.  Finally, once these factors have been considered, teachers can make use of the various technologies they are familiar with that will best allow them to carry out the activities.  Sounds logical to me!