Podcasting

     As I watched the video on podcasting I found that this type of technology gives us a way to capture shows now so that we can watch later.  This makes it on demand according to our schedule.  There are three reasons that podcasting is becoming popular:

1. Anyone can do it.  No satellites, radio towers, or studios needed all that is needed is a computer, connection to the web, a microphone and/or video camera needed.  There is a wide variety of podcasts. 
2. Subscriptions – clicking a button and subscribe to receive future shows using a podcaster like iTunes and
3. Gadgetry – downloading podcasts to portable device and taking it with you.  It works on mp3’s, iPods, and other devices (Ranchofrijol 2008).

One use in the classroom is for students to create their own podcasts containing original material thus deepening their understanding of existing material.   It also supports curriculum integration as it can be used instead of text-based information.  Students of today are familiar and comfortable with iPods, mp3’s, and other portable devices making podcasts easy to implement. 

     Podcasting is completely different from wikis’ and social bookmarking in concept and use.  Unlike wikis’ and social bookmarking, podcasting enables one to create online radio programs.  It enables one to be their own independent producer and distributor that can be offered worldwide via the web (Jonassen, Howland, Marr, Crismond 2008).  Voice threads are similar in that it uses a microphone to record or an audio file and can also be imported onto an mp3 player. 

     I presently do not own an iPod but my seven year old got an mp3 player for Christmas which I downloaded music onto.  I love connecting it to our van stereo enabling us to listen to our music rather than at the mercy of the radio stations and its numerous commercials.  I personally would use it in my classroom.  Our school uses it as an extension of its classroom allowing the 5^th grade students to check one out enabling them to complete an assignment or homework.  The advantages of online communication tools are primarily the speed of connection.  One is able to connect to classrooms across the ocean in a matter of seconds, they are able to glean new information, and are able to learn from others all over the world.  I see myself integrating podcasting into my classroom but of course, I must first enroll in professional training so that I implement this accurately and effectively. 

References

Jonassen, Howland, Marra, Crismond (2008), Meaningful Learning with Technology, Columbus, OH:             

     Pearson Merrill Prentice Hall.

Ranchofrijol (Nov. 12, 2008).  Podcasting - Plain English

     http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DDLqu0d-z8o

Wiki blogging

     Wiki’s are an amazing way to engage students in education.  I would use the wiki to post classroom pictures, personal info about me, and games related to the subject I am teaching.  As the students complete the class assignment then those scheduled for computer time will be allowed to “play” on their homeroom wiki.  They do not even realize they are learning because to them it is “fun”.  I included wiki's from two of the teachers I currently work with, in the resources below.  I have not experienced blogging in the classroom but I would like to use it as daily journaling for the students.  I can use their blogs as informal assessment on their writing skills and therefore have an idea as to which TEKS we may need to revisit. 

     First of all, kudos to the creator of that video (Lefever 2007)!  It was like watching socialbookmarking for dummies, lol!  I found that this would be extremely useful for me as a teacher.  How many links have I added to my favorites tab, the computer catches a virus, then get a new computer and have to start all over again?  Also, there are websites that I know other teachers use as classroom resources that I would absolutely love to have once I become a teacher.  I have already added this to my browser.  I was not that impressed with voice thread. Not sure how I could apply it to third grade.  As a matter of fact, our media specialist introduced this to us at a training last year and the majority of our staff was not impressed nor have they used it in the classroom.  I would need a little more in depth training and ways to implement this. 

     A learning community would be beneficial to a teacher desiring to continue professional development.  It enables one to stay on top of current events, educational trends, and technology.  I have not personally explored it but I would like to.  Tapped in says it is “the online workplace of an international community of education professionals”.  This is a strong description of itself and it seems that it holds up to it.  According to the text, one is able to engage in professional development programs and informal shared activities with other educators (Jonassen, Howland, Marra, Crismond, 2008).  It seems time consuming but I will not know for sure until I explore it myself. 

References

Jonassen, Howland, Marra, Crismond (2008), Meaningful Learning with Technology,

     Columbus, OH:  Pearson Prentice Hall

Lefever, Lee (2007).  Retrieved 3/2/11  http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x2rqw9_social-bookmarking-in-plain-english_school

Marks, Susana (2010).  Retrieved 3/2/11  http://3rdmarks.wikispaces.com/Discovery+Education

Wolfe, Claudia (2010).  Retrieved 3/2/11  http://3rdmarks.wikispaces.com/Discovery+Education

Retrieved 3/2/11  http://voicethread.com/