Month: February 2016

Multimedia

Posted on by michaelchung125

In recent discussion of multimedia, some argue that media can become a problem in a classroom. From this perspective, people are thinking about a specific type of media. On the other hand however, others argue that media can be helpful in classrooms. According to this view, people believe media is helping them succeed in classrooms. In sum then, the issue is whether the specific kinds of media are helpful or not in classrooms.

My own view is that most of the media are helpful in the classroom, such as Podcast, videos, and blogs. For instance, Radio Willow Web from the Willowdale Elementary School in Omaha, Nebraska. I think it is helpful for students, and students will enjoy it. Another example that provides the same insight is Podcast. As we discuss in Education 270 class, if the teacher is going to be absent, the teacher can record the lesson plan on podcast. Instead of writing out everything when the teacher is sick, the teacher use podcast to tell the sub about the lesson plan. I honestly think that it saves time for the teacher. In conclusion, media are helpful if you choose the right kinds to use in classrooms.

Web 2.0

Posted on by michaelchung125

In recent discussion of Web 2.0, a controversial issue has been whether sites are strengths or not. Sites can be educational, but sites can also contain wrong information at the same time. On the one hand, some argue that sites can be educational, such as Class Dojo, Khan Academy, and Cool Math. From this perspective, people think sites are helpful for students. On the other hand, however, others argue that sites are bad for students. According to this view, they are talking about specific sites, but not all. In sum then, the issues is whether we can figure out what are helpful sites and what are not.

My own view is that one thing to consider is which grade levels are you going to be in, because some sites might not be suitable for all age levels. Furthermore, before having students use the sites, teachers should know the sites really well. In addition, teachers should create lesson plans, and state the reasons for using sites. For instance, is Facebook suitable to be in elementary classrooms? I honestly think Facebook contains information that elementary students are not allow to look. Though I concede that it might be a good way to connect with parents. I still maintain that Facebook is kind of personal, and teachers can connect with parents through email. Although some might object that there are lots of other sites that are suitable with all age groups. I would reply that I agree, but it is the teacher’s responsibilities to choose appropriate sites to use in the classroom. The issue is important because it affects lots of people.

I chose a site call Animoto, and it is a simple site. Most students should be able to figure out pretty fast once they get going. It will be a helpful site if we have a video project in class, and the student will be able to use the site. You really don’t need to know a lot in order to use this site, and you can sign up for free. There might have some limits for the length of video though. I think this site will be most suitable for junior higher. Additionally, there is another site that might be helpful for making video as well, and it is GoAnimate. For making video, make sure to check out both sites.