I give students a topic to research quickly while in class on the smart phones and see who can find the answer the fastest and the many different types of information on one subject that are available by simply using their phones search engines.
I think that the use of the LMS allows for a guided/facilitated use of technology such as websites or youtube video. Also we attempt to use video teleconference technology to bring speakers into class. It is not that difficult if coordinated and rehearsed properly.
At our institution we us power point presentations. I do feel it can get boring from time to time so a state change is in order. A quick talk about something besides the course material that interests them and back to the power point with added experiences I've encountered during my time in the field.
I integrate Gmail and resources available through Google that may enable them to be more efficient students and, later, professionals.
I utilize Powerpoint Presentations that link internet articles and videos with websites. Specific Websites based on Designs we are studying are important for students to see the relevance of the material.
I use powerpoints but this becomes boring too. I need to implement more graphics into my powerpoints. I have made worksheets out for the students to go to a specific website to answer worksheets which gets them familiar with a website and engages them with manuevering through it. I have used smartphone texting using www.polleverywhere.com, a question and answers system that allows students to see answers showing up on screen.
Robert,
You may also want to try "Prezi", which can really add a "spark" to the presentation. PowerPoint is good, however it is a little limited.
Tremayne Simpson
I have created homework that can only be completed using the Internet. I have found sites that have been around for many years, using the address given the students must answer questions about the information contained in the website.
I have been using powerpoint for sometime but have started adding youtube to them to bring more attention getting action into the presentations.
For my economics class, I use to have students cut out newspapers and journal about current events. I know have students create a blog and have them post and share current events with each other via the blog. I have begun using this tool in multiple classes. Not only do the students enjoy the interaction with each other outside of class, it is helping build a positive digital citizenship.
Prototypical to the modern classroom I use videos, presentations and computer assisted information. However, I added my tablet with Bluetooth video projection and use it during lecture to take visual notes and record comments to share with students.
I've tried using Poll Everywhere, an internet based service that integrates with PowerPoint to let students answer questions via text messaging in real time and had a mixed response from students. It wasn't as engaging as I'd hoped!
Also, the students themselves have incorporated technology brilliantly into presentations using all types of games: Jeopardy, Who Wants to be a Millionaire, etc. As instructors, we can do our best to incorporate technology into instruction, but we also need institutional buy-in for hardware/software purchases and IT support.
I try to add new technology to my classes as much as possible. I like to used the latest web 2.0 tools. As time goes by more and more businesses will be using tools from the internet instead of being installed on the computer.
I have students make oral presentation using PowerPoint or Movie Maker. They need to create the message and use the technology.
For the assignment
I require:
1. Photographs they have taken
2. Sound or music as part of the presentation
3. Insert a video clip as part of the assignment
Ive found that I can have the students utilize their phones and they really enjoy being able to look up something right away on their own. We provide free Wi-fi at our school and these days it is rare for a student to not have a smart phone, laptop, or tablet. If there are students without, they can either buddy up or borow mine.
When I teach a subject like Anatomy, I can't just sit there lecturing about the valves, chambers, vessels, etc. I must use animations so that the students can see where these areas are beyond the the textbook diagrams. Using animation brings the structure to life and full understanding is achieved. The "ah ha" moment happens and they become more interested in what I have to deliver to them.
Lisa,
I have used the PowerPoint game templates and they are definitely engaging for the students. A simple exam review session can be transformed into an ultra, competitive game show, in which all of the students are anxious to display their knowledge of course content.
Tremayne Simpson
on our lesson plan we encurage the students to do projects like powerpoint presentations and also they have access to a virtual training program to practice some medial procedures
We use various online learning resources including lab simulators and CD assignments. We also often assign material that requires research and ask the students to present some of that material to the class by creating power point presentations.
I try to use the internet (youtube, social media, etc.) to show how effective technology can be in furthering ones career and knowledge. That being said, it's important to understand that technology merely offers us more tools with which to make our job easier. It cannot replace the human component and we must focus on using technology correctly, which includes a healthy dose of skepticism regarding new technologies. There is always a trade off and we must focus on people and learning more than than technology for its own sake.
