Integrating Technology

To view my presentation What is Effective Technology Integration -for the 21st Century Learning click on the link below:

Slideshow Presentation

In my presentation I used the following effective presentation techniques:
1. Simplicity - my presentation is very simple without all the "bells and whistles".  I don't use a lot of images in my presentations as I feel they distract the audience.
2. 3x3 - I tried my best to use the 3x3 rule whenever possible.
3. BIG Font - I used big font so the audience will not have trouble understanding the text on my slides.  It also helps to fill the slides, as they are quite simple.
4. Colour Choice - the colour I chose is a simple beige.  It makes the presentation easy to follow and read as the font is dark blue or black.  I don't like using white as a background, as I find it harsh on the eyes.  The beige background provides a nice backdrop, adding some interest but is not overwhelming.
5. Easy to Read Font -  the font that I chose adds clarity, as it is easy to read.

Reflections on Blogging

Blogging is a very new experience for me.  The only other blogging experience I have had was in my Philosophy 1000 class and I did not enjoy it.  Because of this experience, I was not very excited about the idea of creating a blog for this class.  I have since changed my opinion.  I have enjoyed creating a blog and personalizing it.  I think it is a great way to use technology in the classroom.  Instead of emailing assignments or adding them to blackboard, we can use our blog! It adds an element of fun.

The youth today, seems to view technology different than I do.  They seem to use technology has a lifeline rather than an addition or resource.  I could see where blogging could be an affective tool for learning with today's youth, as they are so dependent on technology.  However, I am still a little skeptical about technology and I would be afraid to use a learning technique in my classroom that I still know very little about.

Experience with Technology in the Classroom

Majority of my experiences with technology in the classroom have come during my post secondary education.  The high school that I attended didn't have technology in the classroom other than overhead projectors, which can hardly be considered technology.

During Ed 2500, I had the chance to work with SMARTboards.  I think these are an excellent addition to the classroom.  Children seem to have fun learning with them and there are so many resources available to make learning fun!!!