The visuals provided in this post are excellent! "I usually try to explain and emphasize, that these skills are precisely what are being taught. We are not podcasting in order to teach Audacity nor Garageband. We are not recording students for the fun of using microphone, we are not blogging, so we can practice typing, we are not skyping for the purpose of using a webcam."
These skills are based on the new 2009 ISTE adminstrator technology standards. The standards will provide a framework for educators to use as they transition schools and their classrooms to places of learning relevant for today's learner. This rubric will guide you in determining your level of use of technology and 21st century skills personally and with students.
"Digital Storytelling can transform your students' writing into a visual masterpiece that is filled with voice and emotion, while enhancing critical thinking skills. The iPad takes digital storytelling to a new level by making the process easier, and even more engaging for students of all grade levels as well as for their teachers. "
More and more special education teachers are finding that the implementation of "Wii Therapy" in their classrooms enables special needs students to break down barriers and develop skills they might not otherwise be able to learn.