I have enjoyed experimenting with new Web 2.0 tools over the past few weeks. There are so many new and useful things available, but it can be a little overwhelming at times. Even though I have had a good time exploring all of these tools there are definitely some I would use more than others.
One tool I am really excited to use are screencasts. I am currently teaching computer classes to 3rd-6th graders and I find myself repeating the same steps over and over again. I hope to use screencasts as a resource to students. I will record what they are to do and post it to our webpage so if they don't remember the directions or are trying to work on it from home they have something to look for guidance. I will be able to measure the effectiveness of the tool by paying attention to students attentiveness during class. Most students who don't know what to do are looking around or goofing off. I am hoping using screencasts will help improve their attentiveness and productivity. I plan on using Jing to produce my screenshots. It is very easy to use and will only take me a few minutes to produce each tutorial. The only resources I will need are my computer and a microphone in order to complete the videos. I know realistically I won't be able to produce tutorials for every lesson, but if I could make sure to cover the things we use the most that would save me a lot of time in the classroom reteaching! Also, once they are created they can be saved so I will have them for next year!!! I am hoping to have at least 1 screencast a week and add it to our web resource page.
Other tools I will continue to use as part of my professional learning network are RSS feeds and Twitter. The more I use the tools the more I realize how valuable they can be. I don't know if I will ever use them to the extent that some people do, but I have found great resources through both of them!
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