This article is written both in the viewpoint of an educator as
well as a librarian and provides information regarding lesson planning for
both. It encourages the use of technology not only in the classroom but in the
library as well. The author encourages the use of technology through a simple
breakdown of the variety of types of technology available. A typical excuse for
teachers to avoid the library is lack of time space and resources to bring
technology into the classroom. The author encourages a partnership between the teacher
and the librarian since the library can accommodate a class and can support
teachers who are not familiar with technology. This article is very simple to
follow and easy to understand for people new to technology in the classroom.
The bulk of this article lists a large variety of Web 2.0 tools that are
organized by type. Each type of technology is highlighted so the reader can
understand its purpose in the classroom and what students can expect to do.
These short highlights help newcomers to technology get an updated glimpse of
the resources available for students and educators as well as a sort of guide
to other similar resources to explore. The author also makes it easier to
incorporate technology into academic standards by creating a table with
standards already aligned across ISTE, AALS and Common Core Standards. This is
a very valuable resource in itself as it already shows which standards fall in
line with the use of each technology. Given the variety of resources listed, it
was difficult to choose which one to try first. One interesting way to bring
excitement into a history assignment is to use Capzles rather than creating a
paper and pencil timeline. This resource allows the user to add pictures and
audio to a digital timeline online. Another interesting strategy for incorporating
technology into the classroom is through Easel.ly. Although Easel.ly was not the
highlight of the section, it was simple to search, sign-up and test out this
web tool. Easel.ly is a website that can be used to design infographics. An infographic
is similar to a poster but customizable with a variety of graphics and text. A
teacher could have students use this format as opposed to a book report or
summary. Easel.ly makes it very easy to create a graphic with all the information
typically used in a report or project but in a more challenging capacity. Overall,
this article is a great example of the treasure trove of resources just waiting
to be incorporated into the classroom for the benefit of all students.
References
Holzweiss,
K. A. (2014). Using tech tools for learning with standards. School
Library Monthly, 30(4), 13-17.
