In my ETC Class this week I learned a little bit about the evolution from the Web 1.0 computer that was a tool for "consumers of information," to the Web 2.0 computer tools for "producers of information." This trend should be reflected in our educational system in order to equip our learners with the skills they'll need to thrive in their future adult world. Incorporating technology into our teaching environment is one way to do that. I will review some of the Web 2.0 tools I like and periodically post in this blog. Many of my friends connected to this blog will also be posting reviews in their own blogs from time to time so I suggest you check them out. I've begun to compile a list that I will eventually share. However, it will never be complete since new and better tools are constantly being developed. One good reference source for learning about the current Web 2.0 tools available is:
I had such a good time exploring Web 2.0 tools for this assignment. It's amazing all the tools out there that can be applied to different aspects of teaching! I could easily imagine the benefits of a site like Little Bird Tales.
.It's a free and fairly secure site that's geared toward kids aged 3-14 but I think it's applicable for all ages. The benefits promoted on the website are:
Although I haven't directly used this tool in my Art Ed classed yet I have taught units where I think this could be easily incorporated. I believe in the whole-learning benefits of collaborative teaching. This tool could be a catalyst in the collaborative process. I'm thinking of a few similar examples of collaborative units that I have done in the past where the outcome could have easily fit the criteria to use this site. For example:
The Visual Art Specialist could teach photography or figure drawing, illustration, cartooning, perspective drawing and the visual elements of book including font and page design.
The Music Specialist could teach how sound effects enhance the story, the importance of music to the setting of the story, and even possibly have the students compose and perform the music to accompany the narrative.
It would be great publicity for any school to have friends and family members be able to enjoy the accomplishments of the students. The school could also arrange for a type of community service outreach if these books could be viewed at the local senior center, hospital, or library. Talk about real world application! Or at the very least displayed on the school website. Just think of the benefits to the students to know their time and talent could be shared for the enjoyment of others! (With only a fraction of the Administration/Teacher effort that concerts and art shows take)
There are so many Web 2.0 tools available for incorporation into the learning environment with the added benefit of developing lifelong learners. I hope you'll feel welcome to add your thoughts to this post and share a special tool that you'd like to recommend.
You are such an artist! It shows in even the lay outs of your blogs. Great style! It made reading the blog even more interesting!
ReplyDeleteI love your colorful blog background, it's really eye-catching! Also, thanks so much for sharing about Little Bird Tales. You have no idea how useful this is going to be with my children. I'm working with them on getting the best from the internet, not just games, but more interesting and educational sites, and this is one of them...Thanks, I'm sharing it with my son's teacher!
ReplyDeleteCatherine, I'm thrilled that you chose to review "Little Bird Tales". (I almost picked it for my assignment too!) I enjoyed reading the implementation ideas you blogged about, such as incorporating different specialists for each step of the process. What a great way to break it down and expand the story-telling experience for the kids.
ReplyDeleteOne question for you - Did you have any difficulty "creating a tale"? The site brings up an Adobe flash pop up, where you are supposed to be able to enable your camera/voice. Strangely, I could not get it to cooperate.
WoW! I really like the layout of your blog! I love the love colorful background. It draws the eyes to the center of the page. I remember that you said you are an artist too. I can definitely see it,if you have some of your works online could I possible check them out?
ReplyDeleteYour blog is awesome! I love the attention to detail you have not only in your blog posts but in your layout. Thank you for sharing your view of Little Bird Tales, this gives me a resource to give to my students and their parents.
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