19. More Tools and Strategies

Teaching with Technology: Tools and Strategies to Improve Student Learning
Special Report
Faculty Focus
January 2011
Magna Publication

This interesting and easy read contains a series of very short articles with reference and practical ideas about current Web 2.0 tools that a professor from Norwich University, Dr. John Orlando, wrote with instructors wanting to use technology in mind. Even though the series lacks reference to actual pedagogical approaches to using specific tools, the ideas suggested are relevant, easy to consider and can spark ideas for new ways of using the tools. Spoken of in first person and experience, the articles suggest tried and true ways of using technology which can be as easy as taking one link per day and following the use of that tool on the next web page.

Suggested tools and ideas include:

• use VoiceThread tools to include learner's questions and ideas in voice format embedded into presentation formats (www.voicethread.com ). This is actually a really neat idea for ESL learners at lower levels that do not feel as confident writing responses or entering formal discussion forums.
• use BLOGS for case studies and collaboration work.
• use PREZI to capture non-linear thinking.
• use SOCIAL BOOKMARKING tools to save our special sites and search them whenever you are. In fact create activities that engage students in collaboration with each other using and sharing their searches online.
• encourage the exploration of diverse tools to serve similar purposes and share ideas amongst learners and/or colleagues.
• use SCREENCASTING tools to save time and extend the life of your input work.
• use POLLING tools to set the tone or the task of a lesson, gather data on the spot and engage learners.
• use HIGH VALUE LECTURE CONTENT already available online and create discussions from common sources.

A great simple and very practical read.