In preparation for the assignment, I did some research after reading the required selection's from the text, websites and podcasts. Wow! Teachers and students are doing some really neat and tech savvy work.
Prior to assisting a teacher setup a podcast for students or themselves, I would, first, want to work on setting up a workspace where they can be uploaded. I would want to 'play' around with it before I instructed others.
I found a great resource in another teacher's website. His name is Mr. Cosand and he and his students are podcasting, blogging and 'Wikiing' in Medford, Oregon. Their team name is the DreamExtreme.
Here, I found 5th grade students inspiring and encouraging me to do more with my students (I also saw it as a challenge and inspiration, as I am so easily terrified of technology and 'messing' something up). I am going to use his website as a reference resource for my near-future endeavors.
Today, I started research with my students. I pulled up the DreamExtreme's website on the projector and we spent 30 minutes checking out what other kids are doing. They were excited about the possibility of creating a blog, podcast and Wiki. They were even more excited about the possibility of connecting and collaborating with students across the country. Once they saw students presenting their assignments vocally through podcasts and visually through YouTube, they were hooked!
I still have tons of work to do with our IT department to find ways that we can can be just as tech savvy as other schools and students. I had some difficulties gaining access to some podcasts; so, I know there are many questions for my IT department. Here are a few areas of concern:
Space for podcasting?
Where to post to get the most visibility (audio)?
Can we afford a hosting site?
Permission from parents for voice recording?
Equipment necessary?
Is there enough time in 1 (50) minute class period every 2 weeks for producing quality work (we only have access to the computer lab twice a month)?
I have leverage, now. The kids have bought in, so I am in!
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Love your inspiration! I feel the same way! It was amazing for me too to see the ways teachers are really reaching out to children and finding interesting ways to catch their attention. We live in a world where students are constantly stimulated by computers, video games, music, etc. I don't believe that we as teachers are able to keep up any more. Our voice lecturing at the front of a room is not stimulating enough for students. Podcasting sounds like a wonderful way to do so. Just last week I got a projector in my room, I can't wait to explore podcasts with my students and see what this can bring to our classroom.
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