Digital Stories

A Journey Through the Rain Forest

I felt this digital story was very well done. It is very important to have the students actively involved. They were able to write, narrate and illustrate the video. Also I believe the students in this class probably learned each other's narrative parts from watching the video. Younger students get very excited seeing their work and most likely requested to see the video repeatedly. This was a very effective method to teach students about the rain forest.

Home Used to be a Place

I enjoyed this video. It was a very touching, emotional video that made viewers aware of the sacrifices our military are making so that we have a home here.

Applications

The use of digital stories is a powerful tool. Creating a digital story helps support higher order learning skills. The creation of a digital story is a good tool for the kinesthetic learner and watching digital stories appeals to both visual and auditory learners.

I plan on using this tool in my Business Education classes. One application might be for an entrepreneurship class. After the students decide on what type business they want to start, they could create a digital story showing the steps of opening the business or showing the steps of creating a product to sell. Personally, I am looking forward to making digital stories for myself.

Martin Scorsese video

Visual Literacy in Education www.edutopia.org/martin-scorsese-teaching-visual-literacy

I believe Martin Scorsese made some valid points concerning visual literacy. As he stated, he was a 2nd generation Italian-American who's family had no tradition in reading. Watching this video made me realize that certain cultures might prefer not to read for learning enrichment or entertainment. Martin grew up watching lots of movies.

I do agree that with proper instruction, videos can be a powerful tool used to teach certain lessons. Also, students can be taught through both watching videos and producing videos how ideas and emotions may be expressed.

I will be teaching Business and Technology courses. This video made some valid points that could be used if I am given the opportunity to teach movie lessons. The students can learn how to translate the message they are wanting the audience to learn through the use of camera lens' angles, eye focus and framing. I also hope to use some type of videoing with general business education classes.

Day 1 - Technology perceptions

1. Who are you and what are you going to teach/do as a result of the degree you're currently seeking?
My undergraduate degree is in Business Management. I decided to change careers and am currently working on my master's in Business Education. I will be certified to teach Business Education in grades 6-12. I would like to teach high school students.

2. Why are you taking this class and how do you feel about that?
Even though this class is required I am excited to be here. I hope to learn various technology methods that I will be able to use in the classroom.

3. What do teachers/others need to know about supporting learning with technology and why do they need to know it?
Teachers need to attempt to keep up with technology since it is constantly changing. Students are very technology savvy and tend to know more about programs than many of the teachers. They are also accustomed to a faster paced environment and become bored with traditional instruction. If used properly, technology can help to keep students' attention.

4. What do you hope to get out of this class?
I hope to learn new technology methods to take to my classroom.

5. What are your strengths and weaknesses when it comes to using technology?
I enjoy learning new programs. I am not a gadget person so I am not familiar with some of the latest items available.

6. Anything else you'd like to add?
I am enjoying this class. It is very interesting.