module 5

Digital storytelling enables students to interact with new literacies. It has many classroom applications. However, I think that it is useful when students are given the opportunity to create original material and add music, narrative, voice and text to their own works or innovate their favourite, existing texts. The most exciting part about this process is the publicising aspect where students determine their audience and who will ultimately view their work. The whole process is very student centred and ultimately engages the learner.

Module 4

I found the information presented about creative commons intriguing. The ability to freely share work increases creativity and inspires you to build upon the work of others . This encourages collaboration. By skipping the intermediaries it also allows for creative license without the restrictions of copyright laws. Richer and more vibrant ideas result from this sharing of ideas as the old adage goes 'two heads are better than one' . Now that photos are taken digitally fickr enables you to create sets according to theme which means you can create your own digital library of images. The possibilities are endless!

Module 3

In this module I learnt about the different uses and applications for google docs. It has infinite uses which can be transferred to the classroom . I especially like how students can revise and edit one document online at all times with no time constraints. It makes it possible for students to do group tasks together without the need to physically go to one anothers homes. It also provides teachers with an insight into who is actually doing the work and whether or not there is an equal share of the work load. I think it would be very beneficial for peer editing tasks and creative writing. It also provides students with the opportunity to acknowledge growth in their work and strive to improve. This interactive, elearning technology enables students to be connected rather than isolated in their learning experiences.

Module 2

I'm very surprised that even with my very limited experience I was able to post my first blog. The modules are providing me with the confidence that I need in order to tackle these new technologies. I especially enjoyed the art blog provided in the previous activity. It is obvious to me that these blogs provide a valuable arena for educators and students alike to collaborate and share ideas and teaching/learning experiences. Blogs are an example of how a classroom opens its doors, literally to the rest of the world.

Module 1 Reflection

My initial reflections are that I am feeling a little overwhelmed by the amount of information and how many elearning tools there are available. Although I have not participated in facebook, ebook and blogs I am familiar with the concepts presented. I have used Wikis although I have not edited or posted comments before. I have also watched numerous utube clips on various topics. I am aware through my experience with students that they definitely respond to these forms of media. I realise that I have been an observer but not an active participant till now I am also aware of how important being familiar with this technology is in today's world.