June 25th....Yesterday with Activote

Lots of fun experimenting with Activote. We learned how to create activote questions from previously prepared tests on the net, copying them and putting them in a flipchart. We all experienced the voting process and faced some glitches with our votes being detected. I can see using Activote for test reviews. After testing, I can see who missed what, what percentage of the class missed it, and the tests are graded for you. Activote makes testing and grading so much easier for a teacher, saving time in preparation and in the classroom. We reviewed and actual worked on the Activstudio board also. Love it, love it, love it!

June 24th--Almost Lunchtime!

This morning on Activestudio we learned much more to bring to the classroom! And oh is it fun! First, we learned how to do containers. We used containers of shapes, filled them with answers, and learned how to make them stay in another container if it was the correct match. If it was the wrong match, the container would go back to where it was. I can see using containers with subject/verb agreement. Students could come manipulate the right verbs to go into the sentences. Another thing we learned is how to attach a files and websites to objects when clicked upon. A good way to use this is to bring up a word file of a quiz after reviewing a lesson, My favorite thing thus far has been learning how to write questions and have the answers pop up when pointing with the pen. The possibilities for using this function are endless. Group reviews will be smooth and easy for students to interact and write notes.

June 24th--What we did yesterday-part deaux!

Yesterday's learning opened my eyes to the possibilities of teaching in the classroom. I was not aware how much time could be saved using the Activestudio. I thought that all the preparation for the Activestudio would take too much time, but now I see that the time saved in class far outweighs preparation time. I can use Activestudio in many ways in the classroom. It can be used in lectures, reviews, quizzes, and testing. Anything previously done in the classroom on paper or on the chalk board or dry/erase board can be done using the Activestudio. I really like the layering effect because you can use the same flipcharts for every class, modify them, and then take away the modifications to start over. I believe that the Activestudio increases student engagement. As excited I am about using Activestudio, I believe the students will exchibit just as much excitement because it keeps their attention. It forces them to usse their ears and their eyes. I believe that the standard lectures only forces them to use their ears. The Activestudio keeps the students active in the discussion and forces them to be engaged. They have to pay attention in case it becomes their turn to work on the Activestudio. I feel that although I was first intimidated at using the Activestudio, I feel that students will easily absorb this technology.

Summer technology training-June 23rd

Today I learned about a tool to use in the classroom that will make my career as a teacher a little easier. The Activstudio is a large white board placed in the front of the room. It is completely computerized and can be worked on via the computer or through the special pen that comes with it. The pen allows you to do just about anything that you want it to do. We learned about flipcharts and the various tools that can help your flipcharts become excellent learning tools. I have to admit that I felt a little overwhelmed at first, but after doing a few quick exercises, I realized that just like with any other electronic gadget, practice makes perfect. Well, I need a lot of practice it seems! However, I have learned my iPod, my digital camera, and have even designed my own photography website. I guess what I am trying to say is that anything can be learned. The fear I have is not learning it quick enough because I am really excited about implementing it. With that said, I will make sure that I practice this Activstudio as much as I can. I feel that it will be very beneficial to me as a teacher. The more familiar I become, the more ideas I will be able to come up with to use it during class. I'm excited for tomorrow, though the room was very cold! Rachel is a great teacher. More tomorrow.......