The methods by which lessons are conveyed to students are usually called instructional strategies. Naturally, adopting the right methods to deliver lessons is an important and daunting task for a teacher—given that students learn differently and have varied preferences. In a learning-centered classroom—in which students are more active in their learning processes—, selecting appropriate strategies become more tedious. The good news is that digital media offers a wealth of possibilities and solutions.
Digital media is defined as “Technologies that allow users to create new form of interaction, expression, communication, and entertainment in a digital format” (Shelly, Gunter, & Gunter, 2010, p. 270). Indeed, digital media applications are transforming the traditional dynamics of learning by offering interactivity as one of their major features (Shelly et al., 2010).
It is recommended that when students are given a chance to “hear, see, and interact with a learning environment, [they] can retain as much as 80 percent of the information” (Shelly et al., 2010, p. 300). Moreover, in addition to their interactivity, digital media applications (in the classroom) make learning fun and engaging thus facilitating the shift from teaching to learning.
It is recommended that when students are given a chance to “hear, see, and interact with a learning environment, [they] can retain as much as 80 percent of the information” (Shelly et al., 2010, p. 300). Moreover, in addition to their interactivity, digital media applications (in the classroom) make learning fun and engaging thus facilitating the shift from teaching to learning.
In exploring the possibilities of digital media in a classroom, I was instructed to develop a digital presentation—digital story telling—using online tools such as Slideshare and/or Prezi. Digital story telling is “digital explanations using technology to tell/explain something such as an idea, concept, or a traditional story” (Anonymous, n.d.).
Given my prior exposure to PowerPoint presentation (used in Slideshare), I decided to explore a more dynamic digital presentation, using Prezi. I must admit that I am taken by the whole experience—thinking of the endless possibilities which these digital tools can provide for more effective teaching and learning.
After watching the provided onsite tutorial video, I began my exploration. Using the Prezi’s editor was challenging at first; however, it became fun to work with as I gradually learned how to use it. In general, this program is very unique, fun, and easy to use. This activity, undoubtedly, has increased my awareness of the enormous possibilities by which I can enhance my instructional plans which I desperately need in my math classes.
References
Anonymous (n.d.). Digital storytelling in plain English. Retrieved October 17, 2010, from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zP6CeGLPuOY
Shelly, G. B., Gunter, G. A., Gunter, R. E. (2010). Integrating technology and digital media in the classroom. (6th ed.). Boston: Course Technology.Below is the result of my attempt in creating a digital presentation for one of the sub-units of my algebra class.
1st project on Prezi
Great post Alyssa. You make a great point when you say that, “I know if I enjoyed using Prezi this much, my students would really benefit from utilizing it for classroom projects.” I too find that when I enjoy doing a project, then my students will also enjoy completing that project as well. However, I try to have different projects for my students to pick from so they can pick the projects that they find fun and will benefit from the most.
ReplyDelete“I would still like to research more uses of digital storytelling in the classroom before I have my students begin using Prezi to create their digital stories,” is another great point. I think it is important not to be afraid to try new things in the classroom for the students. I also think it is important to research new ways of instruction to engage the students. I have found that the more I vary the routine, the more the students are engaged and enjoy coming to class. The more the students enjoy your class the more they are willing to try and that will benefit both you and your class. I have seen many students walk into a class where the teacher lectures everyday with almost defeated looks on their faces. I can tell they do not enjoy the class and therefore, they do not learn as effectively as they do in a class that they enjoy.
Sorry for the other post. I posted to the wrong blog.
ReplyDeleteInteresting post Kami. I also feel that, “This activity, undoubtedly, has increased my awareness of the enormous possibilities by which I can enhance my instructional plans.” You also wrote that you are a math teacher, and this will help you in your class. How do you plan on using this in your class? Will you have the students create their own Prezi or will you use Prezi as a note taking guide? I teach social studies in OCPS, and I can’t wait to use Prezi in my class as well. I plan on trying to get some time in the computer lab to give my students a project, and then they will present their projects using Prezi. It is always a good idea to vary your instructional plans. I can tell my students always enjoy it when we do something different in my class. The more the students enjoy the activity, the more they will be engaged and learn.