He understands that he can make technology work for him.
And for his classroom.
Mr. Ferriter is a sixth-grade language arts and social studies teacher and his goal is to engage all the students in the course content. He understands that more and more students are spending a considerable amount of time online so he has discovered a tool that will allow him to connect with his students at their usual "hang-out" spot (Weir, 2008).
Mr. Farriter is one of the many teachers that utilize the Voice Thread Technology to further engage a broader group of students and to extend learning and collaboration opportunities outside of the classroom.
So what exactly is Voice Thread?
Watch this video (created through Voice Thread):
Benefits of utilizing Voice Thread:
Did you think I would give you the answers?
I want to know what YOU think the benefits are. How would YOU use this tool?
Now that you have formulated your thoughts, I here are a few more ideas (Weir, 2008):
- Voice Thread boosts participation, allowing students a safe environment in which they can contribute ideas
- Students who are timid or introverted in class may be more comfortable expressing themselves in the virtual classroom
- The learning opportunities do not stop when the end-of-the-day school bell rings
- And for the reluctant teachers, Voice Thread is created to be easy-to-use and teacher/student-friendly
- Best of all: the opportunities available through Voice Thread are only limited by the teacher's imagination - there is SO much you can you with this resource!
So, can you hear me now?
References:
VoiceThread. (2007-2010). Retrieved October 10, 2010, from http://voicethread.com/#
Weir, L. (2008). VoiceThread Extends the Classroom with Interactive Multimedia Albums. Encourage student participation with accessible and engaging digital discussions. Retrieved from: http://www.edutopia.org/voicethread-interactive-multimedia-albums
1 comment:
I would agree that approaching the students in "their hang out spot" was a unique approach to reach them. Outside of those in class who speak out at whim, having an area in which to address the subject matter on their own recognizance is extremely valuable. Recently i viewed a special called F.A.T.City and one of the topics that it addressed was the need for certain learning disabled students to have more time based on their own cognitive speed. With programs like voice thread student will no longer have the fear of getting caught unprepared in the spot light.
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