Monday, June 13, 2011

New Tech Bites

I think the Roxio software would be a great addition to any type of technology program. It allows individuals to get direct hands on experience with digital media and being able to develop DVDS, CDs, make cards, calendars, slide shows, and even edit photographs. This is a one stop shop to allow an individual to experience the world of digital creation.

 I recently bought a laptop and this program was already installed on it and although I haven't used it yet, I can certainly see myself using it to create fabulous home videos of my daughter to send to her Grandma in TX!!!

In the past I have used Imovie make and Windows Movie Maker, but I'm excited to see all that Roxio has in store!!

Truly,
dpledge

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Assistive Technology Devices

Assistive Technology

Image courtesy of:http://www.fusd1.org/19271065183236313/site/default.asp

 Discussion Questions:
  • Describe how you might use any of these resources to assist speciaI l needs of students in your class now and/or in the future. 
 All of the resources listed on the site are great tools to incorporate in any type of K-12 classroom to assist students with disabilities.  This resource with multiple tips and techniques for all age ranges.voice  I think the voice recognition and voice software items are very useful to keep students engaged in the classroom.  
  • Present at least 2 new ideas/applications/opportunities that you learned about assistive technologies through your research.
               -I learned about the Taction pads for younger kids. It's attached to points on a mat to help encourage rolling or crawling.  It has a motivating auditory response that gives kids praise to let them know they're doing good and keep them motivated.
          - I also learned about the T.A.L.K which means Take Along Language Kits. These kits helps student with language development and allows physical hands on contact with different items to enhance student learning.
Locations for Attaining Assistive Technology

The sites above are GREAT resources for educators and families!!

Truly,
dpledge

Friday, June 3, 2011

                                                                              WIKIPEDIA
Q1. Margaret Santori, (in the Literacy 2.0 book) demonstrates Wikipedia to her students. Most school do not allow Wikipedia to be used. Would you use Wikipedia like Margaret Santori with your students?  Why?
A1. The video attached, courtesy of YouTube, gives an overview of this site. I  must say it's not something that I take information from as a source. I usually go there if it's a quick basic question. Early on I was always told not to believe anything on the site, but I also know this site has greatly evolved over the years. I think Margaret Santori does a great job with incorporating Wikipedia as a discussion tool. The factor that students can learn to agree to disagree as long as they are able to argue their position is great! I always loved debate situations and hearing the "What Ifs" from other students. It helps with  effective student collaboration.

Q2. If three dimensional reading and writing books with technology (sound, hyperlinks, videos, etc) are our present, what do you think is the future of the written word?

A2. I can't imagine how much more advance we could get with technology in relation literacy. We're already at a point where information is readily available to us in the matter of click. I hope written word sticks around, but with online blogs and the social technologies now being able to capture moments instantly I think the amount of written word resources may be limited, but it won't vanish.

Truly,
dpledge