A fourth grade teacher and myself are embarking on an exciting classroom project. We have written a grant to receive a set of 6 iPods for her science class to use as a learning tool. We will begin by creating podcasts to guide them through their hands-on labs. When that practice becomes comfortable for all we will upload content related videos to the iPods and send them home to serve as a remediation for ELL (English Language Learners) as they develop understanding of science concepts. In the spring (maybe sooner) the students will create podcasts of their own to communicate their understanding of science concepts they have studies. the podcasts will serve as a study guide or review prior to the administration of the SOL tests.

We were awarded half of the amount of funding we proposed to receive. Therefore, we are in the process of writing letters to request donations from local businesses. Hopefully, they will supplement the grant funds and allow us to purchase all the equipment we originally had in mind to buy.

Have any of you used iPods in the classroom? If so, how did you use them? What worked for you? What didn’t?

ThinkPort is a dynamic educational website. It houses excellent virtual field trips that include learning activities (i.e. a mystery or problem for students to analyze). Videos from Maryland public television are included in the field trip we will be exploring today. After viewing this video go to www.thinkport.org and find activities that fit into your curriculum!
Download Video: Posted by klera at TeacherTube.com.

I am Kay Lera. I excitedly became an educator in 1991. I enjoyed classroom teaching for 12 years (K-3). Upon leaving the classroom environment I became and educational technology integration coach and that is my current role. I hold a Masters in Education degree from James Madison University in Virginia.
I hope to document my successes, challenges and trials as an instructional technology coach. Feel free to provide me with critical criticism, teachings ideas… your thoughts in general!

Why should we teach children to embrace technology as they learn?

Can you solve this puzzle? Watch the video and decode its message.
Download Video: Posted by coolcatteacher at TeacherTube.com.

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