Engaging Presentations for Education

While I have been a faithful user of Powerpoint for many years, I have come to learn that there is so much more out there when it comes to presentation software.  I realize that what I am learning about right now is just the tip of the iceberg, and this is where I really value the input and reviews from my fellow educators.

As I move into a new district, school and grade, where do I begin?  What is best for student learning and my own (as time will be very precious to me this year)?  Also, what paid programs are already supported by the board and is it possible to subscribe to new ones?  I have so many questions and reservations as I move into the unknown.  I hope that my coworkers will be willing to share with me and that the school will offer enough technology to support interactive student learning.

Here are a few of the programs that I stumbled upon and am interested in learning more about.

Prezi

I first learned of Prezi a few years ago but I have yet to use it. My school did not support the purchasing of software, and when it was approved, it would take forever to obtain. Now that I am part of a school board, I am hoping that this is something I can have access to and learn along with the students. Since it is non-linear, I think this would be great for subjects such as Social Studies.

Museum Box

Another paid application, Museum Box allows users to create a virtual box that creates an interactive way to learn about an argument, person, idea or event. I could really see students using this as they could explore, create and share their learning with one another. Why not explore Latin American countries, famous authors, particular celebrations, etc? The possibilities are quite endless here.

Haiku Deck

Haiku Deck is an interactive software that comes in an app form and is very easy to share. This program focuses on creating fun presentations that focus on visuals rather than slides with a lot of writing. It is very easy to incorporate social media and to collaborate with others. Some aspects can be purchased, but they give you enough to start.  I think this would be a great way to introduce a topic for the audio and visual learners. 

 

Meet Haiku Deck from Haiku Deck on Vimeo.

Glogster

Glogster creates virtual posters where one can integrate resources from the net but also personal ones. Just by the presentation video, you can see that this would allow students to use many thinking and planning skills across the curriculum. What is also amazing is that it has a database that gives examples for students to learn from. Teacher applications could topics for PD, classroom reminders (ex. anti-bullying) and other issues important to a school. The posters can be printed.

My Reflection

I have to say, I am both excited to try and equally overwhelmed by all this new presentation software and resources that I can possibly use in the classroom.  While I have seen students use some of the more well-known software such as Google Docs and Skype, I think this ability to collaborate is pretty awesome.  The greatest advantage of these programs is the ability to SHARE.

There have been many students concerns in the past when getting together with group members was very problematic.  These programs can help solve that problem, which is amazing, since students need to learn how to work in a group inside and outside the classroom.  However, the major obstacle is the access to technology.

Unfortunately, not all students will have computers or internet access at home, and this is a real issue that we must consider.  Allowing students to use these programs in school is essential, and then if they can extend it to home, then great.  If not, we have to give all students the ability to achieve, create and collaborate at school.

Another thing that worries me, especially coming from a school that had such limited resources and money, is the issue of the price of some of these programs.  I don't mind paying for some of the resources myself, since I think it's only right to pay these people who have put in the time and creativity to make something awesome.  However, can I share my account with students?  Should I?  How do I ask a school board to pay for something like this and would they even consider it?  In a time when sometimes there are not enough chairs, desks, books, etc., how are they going to give me money for tech programs?  I honestly don't know how the whole thing works, but I am hoping that there is some support for new technology.

In terms of working with my colleagues, while I think these programs are awesome and can create some great resources for other teachers (like in the last slide collaboration), I also think there needs to be some face-to-face if the opportunity exists.  While I enjoyed talking to others in this course on Hangouts, I was the one that experienced the interruptions in internet and it affected my experience.  I know that it would be impossible for us to meet in person, which is why these programs are great, but I also really value the ability to sit down and collaborate.  Call me old fashioned, but I honestly think there needs to be a balance between personal and virtual interaction.  We need to learn a plethora of communication skills and extend that to our students to further prepare them.