Technology in the Classroom - Less is More


I believe that the motion picture is destined to revolutionize our educational system
and that in a few years it will supplant largely, if not entirely, the use of textbooks… 
I should say that on the average, we get about two percent efficiency out of schoolbooks
as they are written today. The education of the future, as I see it, will be conducted through
the medium of the motion picture...  where it should be possible to achieve one hundred
percent efficiency. 

(Guess who?, 1922)

Good teaching comes from mastery of a subject, clear communication, patience, empathy,
planning, and a sense of humor.  Using technology will not make you a better a teacher except
in how it improves these aspects.

(Anonymous,  2007)


Technology will not make you a good teacher, a good speaker, or an informed person, but it can help enhance what you are.
Don't be too scared or lazy to learn how to use technology in useful ways.
There is a way for every teacher to infuse technology naturally and effectively to enhance their own style and talents. 
Don't knock it till you've tried it -- then you can knock it with an informed opinion.

Course Management


Social Networking - The Communication Revolution

    Understanding 21st century Social Structure

Poetry:                       Poetry_Critique

Mathematics:               Math Nerds

Foreign Languages:    LeMonde

Mentoring:                   Telementoring


Enhancing Learning

Wikipedia:  Don't forbid Wikipedia - the most famous Wiki.  It is filled with good information, and useful links. 
It is self-aware and promotes critical reading. 

Use software to simulate a real world or real life situation. 
Use software to build intution and experiment.

Mathematics:    Monty Hall I    Monty Hall II

Language:      Conversation

History:            Do History

Biology:           Dissection

Government:     Resurrect Thomas Jefferson

Geography:       States

       A Picture is Worth 1000 Words;  an Interactive Picture even more.

Computer Science:     Sorting

Mathematics:            Pythagoras' Theorem I           Pythagoras' Theorem II

Science:                   Hurricane Tracking

Literature:                Mark Twain Controversy

Music (Utube):       A coloratura soprano is a type of soprano who specializes in music that is distinguished by agile runs and leaps.

Queen of the Night    (Aria starts 2:15 into the scene)
R.E.M. was one of the first popular alternative rock bands, and gained early attention due to Buck's "jangly" guitar style and Stipe's unclear vocals.
Shining Happy People  (Great for kids and adults of all ages)

Formal presentations with appropriate visuals, diagrams and/or animations.

Excellent Powerpoint Tutorial

Pitfalls:  Not for normal lecturing to children (or most adults)
             Obscures communication by darkening room, and turning dialogue one way.
             Handicaps natural charisma, charm and warmth. 
             Limits spontaneity and interaction.
             Do not teach or encourage children to use Powerpoint!
             Teach them public speaking techniques instead.

How to use Powerpoint with children - Examples

Jeopardy Template - Make your own game

Ready to Use Jeopardy Games

Ready to Use "Who Wants to be a Millionaire" and "Hollywood Squares" Games

 


Thanks to Ralph Bravaco for helpful discussions and resources