I need to compile a list of information I expect the students to find when assigning this type of project. I also need to provide them with a rubric so they know how their project will be assessed. I need to determine which software program is most effective for this assignment; power point or a simple word document. I would also like to utilize some other programs such as animation and sound for the project. Students will be allowed to complete the same project but with their own unique tools. An additional tool I would like to add is a program that enlarges the print for students with certain learning disabilities as well as those with visual impairment. I need to find out what programs are available.
paper title: Blog Entry 3
paper ID: 187951952
author: Shelburne, Kathryn
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Hi Kathy,
ReplyDeleteSince it sounds as though you are asking them to problem-solve, you might want to consider doing a Webquest and having them choose from 3-5 different ways to present their findings to you. For example, one might choose a spreadsheet with a word document to support it, another might select a podcast, while another might want to do a PowerPoint.
Have fun with this! I bet the students will!!
Kathy,
ReplyDeleteI think your idea of having students create a plan for vacation is a great idea! This activity clearly creates an authentic learning experience for students. What would your objective be for this activity? You might consider giving each group of students a budget or even reverse the role and have each group be a travel agency that is competing to gain a client with X amount of money. Their job is to convince the client that he or she will get the most "bang for their buck" as the saying goes.
I agree Bruce. Since one tenant of Universal Design involves allowing students to demonstrate their understanding in a variety of formats, I think you should allow students to use a variety of technology to present their findings. In addition to Excel, Word, and PowerPoint, you may want to consider using organizer programs such as Inspire, digital storytelling programs such as Photo Story 3, or digital poster programs such as glogster.com. I recently was introduced to glogster and was very impressed. Students can create a digital poster that contains pictures, animation, text, sound clips, links to other websites, and even video clips. Students could use this to create a multimedia presentation advertising their great vacation package.
Posted by: Kim Yagel
I think it is important to provide real life scenarios for students. That was a great idea! The implemention of technology with real life problems will assist students to become better prepared for the future. While technology is not essential to creating authentic learner-centered instruction, it offers a powerful resource for engaging students in authentic experiences, typically increasing both their motivation and their learning (Cennamo, Ross & Ertmer, 2009). I like your idea to allow the students to use their unique ideas to formulate their projects. Students learn through different methods and are better in certain areas. Some students may want to formulate a Powerpoint while others want to go a different route. I think it's important to give the students flexibility with their own learning.
ReplyDeleteBruce, Kim and Valerie,
ReplyDeleteI appreciate your feedback. Kim, I thought your idea about giving students a budget was great! I am not sure children understand the expenses involved in a vacation. This would be very beneficial to them. I would take this one step further and involve the parents. I could send a letter home before the project and ask the parents to look over what the students will be doing and ask them to provide the amount of money they would want to spend on a family vacation. This would be a great way to work collaboratively with the parents and establish a strong bond with home base.
Bruce,
Great idea about the Webquest offering students alternative ways to present their information.
Valerie,
Students do enjoy being a part of the decision making for projects. The challenge comes with planning the project and allowing for student's diverse methods of presenting the information. It could be very easy or it could be a considerable amount of work. I think the answer lies in the planning.
Thank you colleagues for your input.