530- Week 5

I especially appreciated the list of readings regarding how to evaluate and purchase hardware and software. I am currently using my digital camera for video. However, I'm certain that my husband didn't consider all the significant features that I would like and use when he bought it for me. When I opened my gift, I was just excited about the fact that it was small enough to make a happy home in my purse. (I'm love whipping my camera out on whim!) When my Best Buy junkie husband drags us out on a look-see, I find myself being drawn to the digital camera and camcorder area. I methodically pick up and inspect each camera. Passers-by would never imagine how much I don't understand about what I am examining! After about 20 minutes, I just laugh at myself for my ignorance and go collect my drooling hubby:) After combing through the readings, I feel fully competent and ready to make a purchase...If I only had the money.

The rubric exploration was very helpful. Knowing how to put together a good rubric makes for more effective and informative assessments. I find it especially difficult to focus when it comes to evaluating my students when working with technology and web-based resources.

530-Week 4

This week was a doosey, cram packed with an abundance of valuable information and helpful guides. I enjoyed learning about Prezi. The directions were simple enough that I'm sure that I can use it with my students, within a modified framework. I can think of many instances when I can begin to map out a concept and my students can use one or two of the tools to complete the presentation. I am excited about making this a regular activity and using it as an additional assessment tool.

The most challenging task this week has been the Pecha Kucha story-board, by far! I have had a difficult time deciding what my presentation will be about and sticking to it. I had my heart set on doing it on my grandmother/second mother as a healing attempt since I lost her kind of unexpectedly in April. However, I am finding that I'm not quite ready to be engaged in this way regarding my memories of her. None the less, the 'green' subject I decided on is still quite a challenge. I am being very hard on myself in terms of worrying about making it meaningful enough to wow my audience. Given the fact that this is my first attempt at a Pecha Kucha, I need to just get over it, take a risk and jump in with both feet!

530- Week 3

I am looking forward to using Animoto with my students. I am envisioning having my students use a camera to take pictures and create their own. They could spend the year recording moments that are important to them, guided by me of course. Then, they could create an animoto of their first grade experience!

The Original Slideshow assignment has been a little more difficult for me. I don't really use slideshow presentations for informative purposes due to limited technology access, with the exception of Stritch assignments. I wanted to use a slideshow that would be relevant to my classroom experience. I decided to use someone else's and make it Zen-tastic! This presentation will fit in with my new and improved technology enhanced teaching plan that I will roll out next school year.

The Digitales chapter gave me a lot to think about. Having the right tools and resources before you begin a project makes all the difference in the world. It is important to understand exactly what you envision for your project so that you are able to properly determine your toolkit needs. Personally, I am interested in using the Morpheus Software free download to transform pictures into other pictures. This will enhance the creativity of some presentations. Although MAC's seem to be more suited for digital creations, there are plenty of resources for Window's users to access. I appreciate the checklists provided at the end of the chapter. They help to sort the toolkit options in a way that is palatable for the aspiring production artist.