EDRD Module 6 Learning Summary

PowerPoints
As I was reviewing what I already knew about PowerPoint and the ways in which is can get information across I couldn't help but think "Is PowerPoint dying? Is this the end?". As a classroom teacher who uses technology, PowerPoint is definitely not my first go to when creating a presentation as it is time consuming.  I prefer to use my SMARTBoard Notebook software. I am also "old fashioned" and because I use workshop teaching I make charts on paper with different colored markers.  I do agree that powerPoint is a great tool that I used throughout undergrad and graduate school, but I think now there are easier ways to get information across. I do believe that PowerPoints can be effective if used sparingly. I will never forget that professor that read straight off the PowerPoint in college.

In Duke's article about creating an effective and engaging PowerPoint there were many tips in way sin which we should be organizing our lessons and information.  I liked the idea of using pictures that will catch the eye of our students.  PowerPoints are meant to be a tool, not the teacher, an aide if you will. PowerPoints can be effective if used as a guide and a helpful tool.  Using PowerPoints can be beneficial so that students are engaged by using a lot of pictures. These pictures are helpful so that students can imagine and see what they are learning about.  Obviously, having less words is better than too many. Make your PowerPoints fun for your kiddos!

PowerPoint Game Resources and Kid Pixs and other Web 2.O tools are great tools that I was unaware of! I think that the students would love to collaborate and make books that they can share with other students!

Research is a part of learning.  We should instill an urge to question in all of our students.  EBSCOhost is a search engine I am very familiar with as I used it all throughout undergrad. This is a wonderful resource when looking for articles and other scholarly material. I am effectively and quickly use EBSCO to get information that I can use to share at my faculty meeting or with other educators.  There are simpler, safer, sites for our younger students who are interested in research.