24 February~ Digital Story 1

Happy 34th Birthday to my Jared. He totally completes me. Love this man.

Digital Story- The next 6 weeks I will be working on a digital story. I am still unsure of my topic although I have many ideas. I want to make sure it will be something I can use while teaching in 4th grade for my field experience.

In class we watched many deep digital stories. I was fighting back tears in most of them. The Holocaust one was so emotional. It made me feel connected, as if I was there. The pictures with the music was very powering.

A digital story would be a great way to introduce a subject. It sparks interest so you'd want to know more. It would also be a fun way for students to navigate and be creative with any subject.

When designing a digital story you must:

• Decide your content area
• Design a general script
• Gather music
• Embrace revision
• Sequence the story so it flows

17 February - Vidcast Reflection

Lydia and I laughed at this picture I took of Ethan and Bolt. Ethan loves his "pal" Bolt. He loves him so much that he wants him to sleep in his bed. Bolt is too chicken to sleep in Ethan's bed so Ethan brought up his pillow and blanket and snuggled Bolt in the front room. He's a little snuggle bug.

Street Sign Reflection with Chris, Natalia, and Angie!

10 February- Vidcasts

Awe. A quiet moment hanging out with their dog. To say the babies LOVE their bottles would be a huge understatement. I just love how they play and pitter patter around the house together. So cute.

WHAT? Vidcasts. We learned how to do a few different types of videos and post them on the internet. You can do videos of you talking, singing, dancing, whatever your heart desires. You can also create one using pictures, music, and fun effects. You will be able to view mine next week. Get excited.

SO WHAT? You can use vidcasts for a variety of things.

1. You could do a HOW TO video where you give oral instructions while doing it. For example; hair, cooking, clean something, the possibilities are endless.
2. You could do a Tutorial on something, step by step instructions on a specific subject. Examples: Tutorial on uploading your pictures, downloading software, etc.
3. Introduction to new content in any subject.
4. PSA-Public Service Announcement on any safety concerns or helpful information for students.

NOW WHAT? Wouldn't it be fun to make a classroom video on a science project? It would be so engaging to do a vidcast on the Solar System. Everyone could participate. You could assign every student a topic that they are in charge of. You could even do Social Studies and Language Arts. I love to take a topic that kids don't think is going to be very fun and turn it into the best thing ever that they'll remember FOREVER! Another idea, not school related, would be to make a vidcast of pictures for a loved one with your voice. A grandma, spouse, or friend would love a vidcast as a thoughtful gift.