Tools

Podcasting
I was happy that I got to learn about podcasting. Podcasting is a way to post video’s, voice recordings, music and other cool stuff on the internet in a more safe way for kids. Instead of having to blog or post things on personal websites it allows you to network computers together and post creative elements on computers through one chosen sight. This allows teachers to not only get away from traditional assignments but to be safe with it. And it’s a major plus because it helps the students learn twenty first century communication skills. I was talking with my brother-in-law who is currently in 6th grade and he loves his garage band on his Mac computer and by using podcasting he can share it with us any time he comes up with a new song! The way this will be helpful in a classroom is that you can post things on the teacher’s end that is informational for the students and give them assignments to watch it at home or in their computer time. And from the students to the teachers it’s a safe way for them to be creative with their projects and stay updated with technology.

Texting
Texting in education is a touchy subject. Most Elementary schools require that cell phones don’t even enter the premises. That being for valid reasons limits the use of the pro’s of cell phones. But having your students accessible is such a convenience and especially their parents. Being able to inform the parents directly if something were to happen in school, such as a kid acting out or absent, you can inform them by texting letting them get back to you when it’s convenient for them. Also if they would like you could have homework sent to them and test scores. Student updates and progress reports. As a parent I think I would love more communication with my teacher and feeling more involved in my student’s life. Of course you would let the parents choose if they would like to be contacted this way but giving those options is always a good thing.