Module 4

Create a blog entry about your experiences in Module 4 or how you might use Digital Storytelling in the classroom

PODCASTs...

This module was fun and a great learning experience. What stood out for me the most was that digital storytelling and podcasts are a great learning tool that allows for information to be shared, downloaded and listened to at any convenience i.e. driving, in bed, traveling and well most obviously in the classroom. The possibilities are also extensive allowing those who use digital storytelling to bring forth their creativity and imagination through music and the audio composition they create.

In the classroom and in particular with assessment I have since utilised podcasts as a way of assessing verbal skills and also a way of saving time. Allowing them to present a speech and presentation on a podcast as opposed to standing up in front of the entire room means that students can be themselves, releasing creative energy and ideas without the fear of humiliation or embarrassment by their peers.
Oral skills are an essential skill found in english.

The final thing that stood out was the fact that digital storytelling was almost like stories told on the radio. They're fun through their inclusion of music and a shift in tone. Podcasts are information in your pocket- if they were an apple product, I'd call them iPocket- allowing you to listen to talkback, lectures, meditation and well, virtually anything.

Module 3

Google Docs.

This was the first time I'd actively used Google Docs.

Although I'm relatively familiar with technology, google ceases to amaze. It is a great tool that can be utilised in my classroom and any classroom particularly activities involving collaboration and data collection.  Being an english teacher Google Docs can be used particularly well with any unit as the course requires a lot of work in textual analysis and understanding which requires different views and opinions. It is also an area of great need for many students, thus using google docs. means that students can work together to battle through dense literature and at the same token learn from one another.

Its easy, simple, fun and is another way for students to work anywhere and anytime. Being able to edit and track the changes that students have made allows for the teacher to see the gradual progression  into their deeper understanding of the texts and unit.