And then watch the public profiles of 20-something teachers unfurl like gift wrap on the screen, revealing a sense of humor that can be overtly sarcastic or unintentionally unprofessional -- or both.
Just to be clear, these are not teenagers, the typical Internet scofflaws and sources of ceaseless discussion about cyber-bullying, sexual predators and so on. These are adults, many in their 20s, who are behaving, for the most part, like young adults.
Podcasting
Hands-on!! Podcasting can be used in powerful ways to motivate students to develop their traditional as well as digital literacy skills. It can be done safely, is relatively inexpensive and fairly easy to learn with any Internet-connected computer and a basic microphone. This session explores examples of successful classroom podcasts and demonstrates how teachers can start their own classroom podcast.
Flash games and tools for teachers. The random name-picker alone makes this site a winner. Graphic organizers and custom quizzes put it over the top. [via Vicki Davis]
NOTE: These activities alone will not encourage higher order thinking
help classroom teachers integrate technology into their curriculum by identifying and providing interactive Internet resources addressing specific objectives.
Secure VoiceThread network for students and teachers to collaborate and share ideas with classrooms anywhere in the world.
Group conversations around images, documents, and videos
Messages can be text-based (computer keyboard, phone text), audio (computer mic, telephone call, upload), or video (computer webcam, upload)
Can be used to put "instruction" online.
The Technology Integration Matrix (TIM) illustrates how teachers can use technology to enhance learning for K-12 students. The two axis are 1) levels of technology integration into the curriculum and 2) characteristics of the environment.