Digital Storytelling in First Grade

The digital storytelling resources presented this week will definitely be useful in my first grade classroom. My classroom has 3 computer stations. In addition, my school has a computer lab that we use for 30-60 min. every week. By the second semester of school, I was able to begin to do more than just logging in with my students! I started teaching them how to maneuver around email, Google Search, Google Earth, Discovery Education, and assessment probes. I have used Youtube to show them videos that are related to what I'm teaching, however, it is difficult to find exactly what I need. I would be better off creating my own resources! This course has come just in time!

I don't believe in sugar coating life with my first graders. Many of them have already experienced more than many adults have. For this reason, one of my favorite resources is Story Corps. I viewed many of the stories during Week One. I love the idea of showing real people who have overcome real challenges in life.

As I introduce higher level thinking to my students, using Voice Thread for sharing and interactive discussion is a great way to integrate technology to accommodate several educational standards.

I am totally inspired to begin using what I am learning through this course. My toughest challenges will include taking on the philosophy of the Presentation Zen. As expressed in the reading and video, preparation requires "unplugging" from the computer to truly focus on the essence of what you are creating. Your "stickiness" depends on it!

Story Teller

I love to tell stories! As an educator, I have found that there are frequent teachable moments that arise everyday that involve a clenching application story. It's like being a good preacher, using elaborate illustrations to make points more relevant to the audience. I am very much looking forward to the things I will be learning in this class. Once the technology needs in my school are met, it will be important to be able to effectively use alternative presentation venues that will captivate my students. I already have experience creating slide shows and slide show movies. Learning how to give them focus and intentionality, as expressed by Garr Reynolds of Presentation Zen, will serve to make my presentations, no matter who the audience, more pertinent. I believe this is the crux of what we should take away from this week's lessons.