BPSTILT Blog

BPS TILT Blog Goes Social

2009-03-05T15:37:00.000-08:00

VISIT THE BPS TILT SNS FOR ALL TILT BLOG POSTS
Get all of your news, reviews, ideas and encouragement...at one place - the BPS TILT Social Network Site (SNS). Because we are all members of the SNS now, I will start to transition all of our many avenues of communication into this one site. I will start with the blog...if you come to this site in the future, you will see a link to the SNS, so that you can visit the latest posts, photos, videos, and forums.

.

Having trouble remembering to go to the SNS? Then bookmark it to your delicious account, bookmark it in Safari, bookmark it in Firefox, bookmark it in Internet Explorer, bookmark it in Flock...bookmark it. Then, visit it!

Better yet, there is an RSS feed available - add it to your iGoogle Home Page!

I created a tab (page) just for my RSS feeds. It really makes keeping up with the TILTers much easier!

I am using this SNS for documentation for the grant. I would appreciate you using the forum to update me about the technology you are exploring (personally & professionally) and learning. You can post a discussion to the forum under "Share & Share Alike" or "Classroom Ideas"... or create your own discussion category.

Remember TILT is about sharing your knowledge, ideas, questions, and frustrations. The SNS is only as good as you are willing to make it through your participation.

New Photoshop.com

2009-03-04T18:26:00.000-08:00

This is a slideshow created by the new Photoshop.com

Pandora radio

2009-03-03T07:22:00.000-08:00

Well, if you are a music junky like me then you will love this site, Pandora Radio. All you have to do is type in what you want to listen to and boom... you got it. Try it out!

Edutopia Highlights High Tech High

2009-02-16T19:15:00.000-08:00

To see a collection of videos from High Tech High, Click here!

Newseum for current events

2009-02-13T08:45:00.000-08:00

This is kind of a neat site – and a fun way to do a little comparison of “current events” from around the state, nation, and world.

http://www.newseum.org/todaysfrontpages/flash/

Just put your mouse on a city and the newspaper headlines pop up... Double click and the page gets larger....

Also, if you look at the European papers, the far left side of Germany will pop up as The Stars & Stripes (European edition, of course). AND, this site changes everyday with the publication of new editions of the paper. Hope you enjoy this as much as I did.

Google Has Gone Under! (water that is)...

2009-02-11T11:19:00.000-08:00

Google 5.0 now lets us oggle over the 70% of the earth we cannot see from land or plane. That’s right; you can now fly your Google navigator under the sea! The 5th version of Google Earth adds the ability to explore the Oceans and Mars, as well as a Historical Imagery feature that lets you view satellite imagery from the past, going as far back at the 1950's in some places. They have made making tours easier and allows users to create a narrated tour in Google Earth and share it with the world. The ocean layer is not on by default, so click it on before you 'crash' into the ocean to explore. Check out this article that highlights the new features in Google Earth 5.0. http://earth.google.com/tour.html

Do you use Google Earth Plus? Well, that is no longer available as the new 5.0 has also included the most popular feature of GPS connectivity into its new version.

Verizon Unlocks GPS Capability

2009-02-11T09:58:00.001-08:00

For those of us Crackberry users, it seems that Verizon gave us all a Christmas gift when it unlocked the internal GPS functions for both the Curve and Pearl in its new OS upgrade (4.5.0.77). Until now, you had to subscribe to Verizon's VZ Navigator service that was running you $2.99 per day or $9.99 per month.
Using Blackberry Maps 4.5.0, you can now locate places, mark locations and track your driving/walking route in real-time much like you can with a Garmin handheld GPS. The only data available on the dashboard is # of satellites and speed. You can switch between pan mode and zoom mode with a click of the trackball. Another shortcut to zoom is using the I and O buttons (for in and out). Yes, you can still use Google Maps, although your location will be more like within 1700m.

Converting the New Office Files

2009-02-11T07:59:00.000-08:00

WHAT'S UP WITH THAT??

Microsoft, in an effort to make it's file structure more universal, has gone to an .xml based file format in the release of Office 2007 for Windows and Office 2008 for Mac. Some of you have noticed files with an x at the end of the extension...and many of you, I am sure, are not able to open these files. There are several ways to open files that have been created in the newest version of Office (for this post I will focus on Word, but the steps are the same).

Option One - Ask the person with the newer version to be kind
If you have a newer version of Office, you can save your file to previous versions through the Save Dialog Box:

Note: You can even set your preferences so that your file always saves in a .doc format.

Option Two - Online Conversion using zamzar:

Visit Zamzar
Browse to your .docx file
Choose the file format you want (probably .doc)
Type your email address
Wait for the email from zamzar with a link to your converted document.

Option Three: Use Microsoft's conversion tool
If you are on a Mac, you can use Open XML Converter. If you are using Windows, you can use the Microsoft Compatibility Pack. These are programs you install onto your computer. They are very straight-forward...you open the program, open the file you want to convert and click convert. It saves a copy of the file in a readable format in the same place as your original document, then opens it for you.

One of my favorite sayings is, "There are always at least three ways to do one step with technology." Here is the perfect example.

High Tech High student project

2009-02-06T07:23:00.000-08:00

Student projects cover almost every inch of the school. Here, a project to highlight the evolution of technology is hanging in the middle of the student commons.
Desiree Caskey
Technology Integration Specialist

The Elusive Delete Key on a Mac

2009-01-28T09:25:00.000-08:00

At a recent TILT day, a teacher asked me if there was a delete key on the Mac laptops. You know, on a PC you have a backspace and a delete key. The backspace erases from right to left and the delete key erases from left to right.

After poking around a little bit, I found that you can indeed emulate the PC delete key. If you have a Function button on your keyboard (fn...at the bottom left). Holding this down while hitting your delete key and you will erase from left to right. Also, using control + D will work in most programs.

Great question, glad there was an answer.

_

Sharing pdf documents using Slideshare

2009-01-27T18:54:00.000-08:00

I created a quick tutorial on how to embed your Slideshare documents into your blog...see the previous post for an example document embedded into a blog post.

Visit Desiree's YouTube page to see the video, along with other tutorials:

Use Slideshare.net to share curriculum documents

2009-01-27T18:18:00.000-08:00

A lot of our curriculum is coming with pdf files you can print out for your students. But...what if you are trying to "Go Green" or be a bit more innovative in your teaching? Slideshare is a solution for publishing these files so that your students can access them online. Slideshare is a web 2.0 tool that lets you publish your powerpoint (and other formats) files to the web. You can even embed your documents into your blog using this site.

Example Document Embedded into this Post:

Podcasts

View more presentations or upload your own. (tags: podcast world_language)

Social Networking...for Teachers!

2009-01-23T13:21:00.000-08:00

Many of you have MySpace or Facebook accounts so that you can connect with friends and family around the globe. And through these social networks you have connected with colleagues in the teaching profession. What do you do to keep that line between personal and professional connections solid?

I think the answer is to join a professional social network. While I was doing some research after attending a Webinar through ISTE on School 2.0...which is better left to its own post...I came across a Ning site called Classroom 2.0. Classroom 2.0 was created by Steve Hargadon to connect educators around the world.

The idea behind the site is exactly the same as FaceBook or MySpace...to keep each member informed of what is happening amongst the group. But Classroom 2.0 outshines these others because it provides some amazing opportunities for professional development, collaboration, and well...networking. I have found so much already; there are teachers around the nation looking for collaborative partners, and there are discussions on every topic you can imagine...with great insightful responses from members. I have been checking out some of the other groups formed inside Classroom 2.0 and there is something for everyone:

Elementary School 2.0
Professional Development
Distance Collaborations
Digital Storytelling
Mac Classroom 2.0
Blogging
Media Literacy
High School Social Studies

If you haven't taken a minute to explore the TILT social network, I recommend you do. It can be a very valuable tool for us. Plus, it is a safe learning environment for those of you that are new to social networks.

Get a Voki now!

Some Very Excited Teachers Say "THANK YOU!!"

2009-01-08T06:55:00.001-08:00

Deliveries were made to these creative teachers on Wednesday!

Barb Fettig at Skyview
She screamed when she found out she won the ipod Touch - scaring her students a bit. They were offering advice and consultation on how to use her new ipod Touch before she even had it out of the box!

Julie Betts at Bitterroot
Julie was so excited, she forgot to lecture her students about their poor performance on homework. She also forgot to mention my cool new hairdo until after I left. ;O)

Carol Annin at Washington
Carol was busy with the wireless lab and SRI testing, but not too busy to discuss ideas of how to use the ipod in her classroom.

I am sure these innovative teachers would love to share with you their ideas for using Wordle! Each one of them told me they had more ideas on how to use this easy and cool tool. Please pick their brains for ideas. After all, TILT is about sharing our knowledge and ideas!

Each one of these teachers wanted to make sure that the judges were thanked! They are a very appreciative bunch. I thank the judges for taking the time too. We really appreciated it.

We Have Some Winners!

2009-01-06T17:46:00.000-08:00

Congratulations go out to our three winners:
Grand prize goes to Barb Fettig of Skyview. Barb wins an ipod Touch and a color inkjet printer.
Second prize goes to Julie Betts of Bitterroot. Julie wins an all-in-one printer & a Flip Video.
Our third prize winner is Carol Annin of Washington. Carol wins a video ipod.

Thank you all for your ideas and creativity. These winners were picked by a collection of staff members at the Lincoln Center. They were not made aware of the owner of the Wordles. Neither Karen nor myself participated in the judging.

Working with Video Just Got Easier...

2009-01-06T13:25:00.001-08:00

I was catching up on my reading and ran across an article in MacWorld I know many of you would be interested in. For those of you that have tried extracting video from a website like YouTube, or use video from the Flip or Aiptek cameras in iMovie...have I got a deal for you! Sounds too good to be true, huh? After all, I have sat with many of you working for hours to get one stupid little video off the web and into a format we can use on our ipods or in a video editing program. Well, here are two free items that will allow you to get what you want.

The first is an extension for Firefox called Video DownloadHelper which installs a little tool to the left of your Firefox address box. When you are on a site with a video, you simply click this little tool and it downloads the video into a flash format (.flv)

Now, if you are a PC user, there are all kinds of free tools that will let you convert that .flv file into a format that is editable (like .wmv, .avi or .mov). However, if you are a Mac user, this is the first program I have found that will QUICKLY & EASILY & FREELY convert that .flv file into something editable.

QTAmateur is a small program you install onto your Mac. You can open the .flv file in it and export it out as practically any file format you want! I think I saw over 20 different choices!

I tried a little experiment to see how easy it would be to install both applications and capture one video clip (3 minutes in length) off of YouTube, then convert it to a format that would work with my ipod. I also imported the finished video clip into iMovie just for fun. It took me less than 10 minutes from start to finish. If you are using a lot of videos in your teaching and want to extract them off the web, archive them for future use, or store them on your video ipod...you MUST HAVE THESE TOOLS! I would be happy to help you if you run into a snag.

If you try one or both of these, comment on your experience; tell us how easy/hard it was for you, any hurdles, or any other information you think is important for folks to know.

Wordle in my classroom

2009-01-05T10:07:00.000-08:00



I thought that I would try to actually post my Wordle for you.
I have used this program many times in my classroom and with all grade levels.
The students love it and it certainly engages them in the activity.  I like to
use it when I introduce the vocabulary for a new area of study and when the
lab is available I have the students create their own "poster" of the vocabulary.
We then print them out and the students feel a sense of ownership with their creation
and they seem to have a better handle on the vocabulary.

New Year, New Colors, New Resolutions...?

2009-01-05T08:43:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the new look of the BPS TILT blog! I thought I would go with the latest fashion color schemes - freezing!

I know many of you have already announced your New Year's resolutions, but for those of you that have not...or those of you that might want to switch, I thought you could use some help. One of my favorite magazines has put together a listing of websites that are designed to help us improve our lives...whether physically, mentally, spiritually...so I thought I could share a collection of them with you - you know - to help you start off the New Year on a good note. Some of these sites are valuable and some are probably not. You be the judge.

Cool Sites:
Topix
Helps you keep up on the latest news and goings-on around your area.

Be Jackson Pollock
Wow! This site is so cool. Double-click once you get tired of one color. ANYONE can be an artist.

5 Minute Tutorials
This site has a collection of short videos to teach you how to do all kinds of stuff...all kinds!

Interesting
This site will make a champion trivial pursuit player out of you yet!

Stumbleupon
Procrastinate Smarter! Thanks to Susan Veit, this is one of my favorite past-times and web sites.

Picbite
Upload a phoe, drag N drop speech bubbles onto it...when you are done, email it.

Ecofabulous
Visit this eo-blog for instant greenspiration.

Food:
What's For dinner
Plan a week's worth of meals with this site. Get a recipe for each day of the week.

EatWell
Put in your zip and find restaurants and stores that sell locally produced eats.

Chow!
This blog is great.

Chezpim
Another great food blog.

All Recipes
I used this site for two different recipes just yesterday. You can get a nice printable form.

Fitness:
Run
Search for running routes throughout the world. Now you can run safely wherever you are.

Power-Systems
Find a new fitness tool (or toy). Choose a goal and the site will recommend the gear.

Bike & Hike
Find bike routes and hiking trails at your vacation spots - or in your own back yard.

Onthesnow
This site tells you the essentials for ski resorts. Just click on the state to get your information.

Just Great Sites:
Convertalot
This is a site that enables you to convert anything that can be converted!

Kiva
This is a fabulous site if your New Year's resolution is to be a better person. Lend money to people in developing countries trying to start a business. Lend as little or as much as you can. You will see how your money is put to use and you generally get your money back within a year.

StuffSafe
Keep an inventory of your household in case of theft or fire. Be prepared to have detailed information for each item you want to catalog.

Rotten or Rad Neighbor
Put in the zip code and read user complaints or compliments on people in your neighborhood.

Find a Book
Enter the title or author of a book you love and this site will give you suggestions on what to read next. Cool!

Etsy
Great crafts - all are one-of-a-kind!

Craig's List
Shopping for something bizzar? Wanting to find a great deal? Go to Craig's List.

HowitSucks
Avoid Bad Technology by reading the negative posts.

Picnik
Tweak your pictures online.

Technorati
One of the most highly rated sites, this is the place to track the most talked about topics.

Whew! If you can't find some great site to help you with your New Year's resolution, you might as well go back to bed for 2009! Happy exploring. Let me know what site you find the most entertaining, helpful, bogus...worth adjusting your resolution.

Time for holiday decorations

2008-12-13T06:07:00.001-08:00

In case you really do have too much time on your hands, how about making your holiday cards online with a group of friends in Google Docs......with a spreadsheet?

Anyone want to try it with me....during the break, of course!

Christmas Quiz

2008-12-12T09:46:00.001-08:00

Christmas Contest!

2008-12-10T09:24:00.000-08:00

Express yourself with Wordle! Submit a wordle that describes what you are doing in your classroom and win a prize! Teachers that have used wordle...can you help out?? Comment on how you have used this fun and useful tool.

The deadline for this contest is January 5th...Good Luck!

So, what does blogging do for your students?

2008-12-05T12:24:00.000-08:00

For those of us that know the benefits blogging can produce when used in our classroom, here is a very good way to show others...

posted from Teacher Tube [full link]

A Wordle based on our trip to Helena

2008-12-03T08:25:00.000-08:00

http://www.wordle.net/. Images of Wordles are licensed .

NETS for Teachers Activity in MT Cadre

2008-12-02T08:18:00.000-08:00

Change is in the Air

2008-11-19T10:15:00.001-08:00

I know that all of you have heard Desiree say that one of her primary goals is to change the way you teach. Yesterday, I was so gratified to hear - very publicly - that the change is happening, and is being recognized and appreciated.

I had the pleasure of attending the Educator for a Day luncheon. This once a year event brings members of the business world and community to our schools for a morning of observation and interaction. The morning concludes with a luncheon during which those participants are encouraged to share their thoughts and experiences.

The very first gentleman spoke enthusiastically about visiting a science class using smart board technology to learn about angles of trajectory. He explained how he watched the "white board" discussion, and then how the teacher "erased the white board" and "immediately launched a YouTube video" that brought real world relevance to the discussion (Jake Brown's XGames skateboard crash for those interested). He talked about how engaged the kids were - whether they realized it or not - and how very excited and impressed he was with what he saw.

Other participants talked about teachers using hip-hop music to teach phonics and watching kindergartners on computers - and all talked about the innovative, creative teaching that they saw happening.

I don't know if any of the teachers in the examples that I heard are members of TILT - but I do know that all of you are a HUGE part of the innovation and integration that we see happening everywhere in the district, so please - take a moment today to pause, take a deep breath and give yourself a big pat on the back...then get back to innovating! I'm so proud of all of you!

-Karen

Learning About Podcasts

2008-11-12T10:48:00.000-08:00

Today I am working with our High School World Languages Teachers. We will be looking at ways to help students learn a foreign language. I thought you might be interested in looking at some of the resources we will be exploring.

Of course, I will talk about the #1 resource for accessing audio/video and podcasts - iTunes...

But some other resources you might not be familiar with are:

EPN: The Education Podcast Network
VoiceThread
Gcast
Audiria
SchoolTube or TeacherTube – with a Flip!
MPlayer OS X (for playing .avi files on a Mac)
Voki
Audacity
Classroom Resources for World Language Teachers

These are great tools to help teach and learn in a multimedia world.

Kindle Kaos!

2008-11-09T16:29:00.000-08:00

So, this is the Kindle! Not familiar with it? Well, neither was I until my husband Mike (who, by the way is the BEST!) and I were watching Oprah (case in point) and she introduced her favorite gadget - the Kindle! She explained the Kindle to be an electronic book reader. The CEO of Amazon evidently invented it. The idea behind it is you can download and store your books electronically. The price of a book to download is 1/2 or less of the retail price for the printed version. The Kindle uses the Sprint network so you can wirelessly shop and download to your heart's content. You can store books, audiobooks, bookmark pages, highlight lines of text, lookup words in a built-in dictionary...even store and listen to music while you read. Because I spend at least one paycheck a year on books, Mike turned to me and said, "I am getting you that for Christmas." Well, that was all it took for me...I was online and putting my credit card info in before Oprah could say, "buy one!" I have downloaded two books and a collection of music so far. Today I finished reading one of the books! It was so neat!

WAIT!!! Before you go online and spend $350...yep, $350 for this guy...you need to know the one downside. Montana and Alaska are the only two states that don't carry a strong enough Sprint network connection for the Kindle to work wirelessly. What does that mean? Well, I have to make my purchases from my computer and then connect my Kindle to my computer and transfer the books via a USB connection. Mike actually likes it this way: I can't just purchase to my heart's content with the convenient "one-click" buying. If you aren't familiar with one-click - take my advice...don't learn. Your wallet will thank you.

Now, for my stocking...I want a Kindle car charger, a Kindle attachable reading light, a cuter Kindle carry case, a Kindle gift-certificate.... or maybe just a gift-certificate to Amazon!

_

Studying Polar Bears in the Arctic

2008-11-06T20:23:00.001-08:00

My students and I had a treat this week. We were able to participate in an international webcast that was broadcast from the Arctic. They thought it was so cool to see scientists live. The second day we watched, the scientists answered some of our questions that we sent to them via ichat (in the moment). They also acknowledged our school and said hello to my fourth graders. My fourth graders were stunned. I think that they did not know the meaning of, "LIVE". It was a fantasitic experience and I really hope that I can find another program like it. It was well worth it!! The blog that is written is also incredibly fascinating! Check it out!!

Watching History

2008-11-05T06:28:00.000-08:00

One last image - for those interested I'll be happy to share more in another forum. As we watched Obama speak I was amazed at the sea of cell phones recording history.

Thank you,
Karen

Sent from a blackberry wireless device.

We're in.

2008-11-04T19:19:00.001-08:00

Watching people use their phones is amazing. Twitter, blogs, email, txt, info, finding friends in the crowd. I'm amazed the towers are keeping up.
Thank you,
Karen

Sent from a blackberry wireless device.

While we wait

2008-11-04T18:13:00.000-08:00

The buildings around us are lit to celebrate the occasion. All around me people are obsessively checking their phones for the latest polls. Those who are tall use their video camera to pan the crowd and show the rest og us how far we have to go. The gates just opened!
Thank you,
Karen

Sent from a blackberry wireless device.

Waiting to see Obama

2008-11-04T18:07:00.000-08:00

This is the "with tickets" line. I don't think I've ever been in a crowd of this size.
Thank you,
Karen

Sent from a blackberry wireless device.

What is a Voki?

2008-11-03T11:02:00.000-08:00

Get a Voki now!

Over the last few weeks I have been introducing my Second Grade students to Vokis. The kids will say something like, "It's this really cool site where you can make something that talks and moves. It can be a person, cartoon, or an animal. You can dress it and change the way it looks and then embed it into your wiki or blog by copying the code that is created. The kids love it and I have fun too. It could be used for students to create something that can go online without readily identifying them. Activities could include students sharing their own ideas, being able to express themself, listen to for fluency, introducing vocabulary and the list for learning is endless.

The Suits

2008-10-31T18:53:00.001-07:00

Thank you,
Karen

Sent from a blackberry wireless device.

Africa

2008-10-20T18:42:00.001-07:00

Technology in TILT: Trinkets, Toys or Tools

2008-10-20T08:45:00.000-07:00

I have recently been in conversations around the district where people have asked me about the "toys" that TILT teachers get as prizes. I have also heard some of the items you use in your classrooms referred to as "trinkets." These statements were not meant to be compliments to our program, but I think they underscore the ignorance of people who are "on the outside looking in."

By definition, a trinket is a small ornament or item of jewelry that is of little value. A toy is defined as an object, esp. a gadget or machine, regarded as providing amusement for an adult.

I would like to educate those that question the use of small technology "gadgets" as teaching tools in your classroom, but I need your help. Please...let's start a discussion aimed at enlightening those who do not understand.

Do you have:
A laptop
A Projector
A FlipVideo
An ipod
Speakers
A USB Storage Drive
A GPS
A Cell Phone
A Microphone
A Mimio
A Digital Camera

...anything else??? If you have ANY of these, could you please help me educate those who do not understand by explaining briefly how you use them in your classroom. You can be as brief or as in-depth as you want. Let's make this post the most commented on issue.

Skype Nerds

2008-10-16T13:05:00.000-07:00

Just like the kids...these two techno nerds are skyping, cool but they are sitting right next to each other!!

------
Billings West High
Health Enhancement
(406) 655-1311 672-6634

View from the Drake house

2008-10-12T18:19:00.000-07:00

Winter Wonderland

2008-10-12T08:47:00.000-07:00

SNOW!.jpg

2008-10-11T06:42:00.000-07:00

Well...the weatherman was right! We got some snow. This is from our backdoor in Briarwood. Share your picts!
Desiree Caskey
Technology Integration Specialist

Multi-Tasking Muddling Teen Brains?

2008-10-09T17:44:00.000-07:00

I listened to NPR on my way to work this morning and heard this story.

Studies with adults have shown that when we multi-task we are actually less productive because the brain has to disconnect and then recreate thought processes as we bounce from task to task.

After reading the article, I wondered if the same is true for the kids of Generation M - a group who learned multi-tasking behavior from the cradle. Do their brains experience these same "brown-outs" or have they adapted/evolved/adjusted?

So my question for all of you is - do you think your students multi-task more productively than you do - or are we all just muddling our brains?

- Karen

Quick Survey for MEA

2008-10-02T12:34:00.001-07:00

Creating Online Slide Shows

2008-10-01T13:27:00.001-07:00

This is an example of a quick slide show I created on Slide.com. You can also use Moblying.com. They are extremely similar.

A Vision of K-12 Students Today

2008-09-30T06:41:00.001-07:00

Adapted From Michael Wesch

This text will be replaced

collaborate.3GP

2008-09-23T08:49:00.001-07:00

This message was sent using the Picture and Video Messaging service on a cell phone!

To learn how you can snap pictures and capture videos with your wireless phone visit www.verizonwireless.com/picture.

To play video messages sent to email, QuickTime® 6.5 or higher is required. Visit www.apple.com/quicktime/download to download the free player or upgrade your existing QuickTime® Player. Note: During the download process when asked to choose an installation type (Minimum, Recommended or Custom), select Minimum for faster download.

Check out some new Web 2.0 Tools

2008-09-19T11:36:00.000-07:00

As usual, Larry Ferlazzo has come up with another great set of "Best of..." lists. I went through his 25 best web 2.0 tools for Education 2008, and hand-picked a few that I thought were relevant to our TILT days and what you have been doing in your classrooms. I also want to list a few that have been mentioned in the past but need repeating!

Some Web 2.0 Tools to Use inside or out of the Classroom:
1. Flowgram:
You can combine web pages, images, powerpoints and other documents...then narrate to create a tour or tutorial. You can even add highlights and notes.

2. Bookr:
This is a very simple way to create a storybook using flickr photos. You simply search Flickr by user or tag and place your pictures into pages and type your story (or captions) with each photo. It would be a great way to explain a concept or publish and online book. It reminds me of iphoto on the web. You might want a Flickr account and upload photos for students to use.

3. Edublogs.TV:
This is another hosting site for videos. You can upload your own or pull them from YouTube. Like SchoolTube and TeacherTube, this site is dedicated to creating a repository of videos for educational use.

4. Digital Vaults:
You have to visit this site to appreciate it. It is a visual representation of the National Archives in a very cool, interrelated, interactive way. I can't even begin to explain how cool this site is - and how much kids will love exploring it!

5. Moblying:
As you can see from the Sidebar...Moblying is a slideshow creator. It is a lot like other slideshow or photoshow creators. I was able to upload a few photos, add a transition effect, change themes...and customize it until the cows come home! When I was done, I could email it, save it as an URL, or embed it into my blog!

6. Graspr:
Another video site...this one archives tutorials. You can upload your video tutorials, create your own or just use those that are there.

7. Zunal:
If you like WebQuests, you will want to check out Zunal. It lets you build your WebQuest right on the site. You can also browse and use existing WebQuests. The site even gives you a step-by-step tutorial on planning and building a WebQuest.

8. Wix:
This is really a fun site to create a web page! It has great sound effects, easy images, and a built-in tutorial as you go. You can start from a template or blank page...you might get lost in the creativity of the site though.

9. MeBeam:
Man, this is a fun site! You can video-conference with multiple people...as long as they have video capabilities. I learned that I have to set my internal video to USB, and then it worked!

10. Book Glutton:
This site lets you read books online with other people. You can upload your work or search the site for books to read. You can read with a group or on your own. If you go to the site, be sure to watch the video that thoroughly explains how the site works. You need to watch this.

11. CommunityWalk:
I really like this easy to use map creator. You can put pins in the map by address, lat & long or just by clicking. You can then add narrative and photos to your pin. Of course you can tag and share!

12. Definr:
Simple is sometimes better. This site is a very fast dictionary. It even has word prediction for those that have difficulty with spelling.

13. CircaVie:
An online timeline creator. You can place text, pictures, video into a timeline. GREAT for history classes. You can also search and use existing timelines.

14. Digital History:
Another style of timeline. It shows the political, social/economic, or cultural events of the world though map pins. Hover over a pin and you get a description of the event. Click on it and you get a wealth of information.

15. PBWiki and WikiSpaces:
Easy wiki creators for collaboration. Both have simple editing tools and user-friendly interfaces.

So...lots of new tools to play with . How could you use these in the classroom? With your colleagues? With your family?

Geocaching with TILT

2008-09-16T20:24:00.000-07:00

On Monday, some TILT III members had a crash course using GPS units and participating in a Geocache in downtown Billings (visit geocaching.com for further information). As the members soon found out, locating a cache in an urban setting proved quite difficult even under ideal conditions.

Would you find educational value in doing such an activity with your students? Can you think of other ways to integrate this technology?

**Posted using BlackBerry Curve!

------
Billings West High
Health Enhancement
(406) 655-1311 672-6634

What about a Wiki?

2008-09-16T19:17:00.000-07:00

Kathi Hoyt and I have recently been sharing ideas and resources as we venture into the world of wikis. Elizabeth Waddington introduced me to the wiki years ago but I never took a shine to this tool until I started focusing on the 21st Century Skills initiative...and now after reading Marzano's book (Classroom Instruction that Works), and presenting on the revised Bloom's taxonomy, I am even more determined to make my world a wiki world. (Not to be confused with wacki...I am already there)

Kathi sent me a copy out of the most recent issue of Edutopia (free resource) titled The Way of the Wiki and I thought it fit perfectly with the direction we are taking in phases II & III for TILT this year. When I read, "A simple, cheap technology with a funny name will become an even more powerful portal into creative teaching and learning this year.", and " A wiki is the ultimate enabler for collaboration.", I knew I was on target for introducing wikis to you at the beginning of this year.

I encourage you to read this article and if you don't already, check out the blog by Vicki Davis mentioned...I subscribe to Cool Cat and she is great! You will hear her name mentioned frequently amongst technology educators as a leader in our field.

I would also encourage you to subscribe to Edutopia...you might have heard of the founder and creator...George Lucas. He has great information for the educator that wants to incorporate creativity in the classroom.

May the Force be with you!

What's On the Horizon

2008-09-11T19:18:00.000-07:00

These last couple of days I have been gearing up for our first TILT meetings for the school year. As I look at my groups of teachers and where they are in the learning process, I struggle to decide what to focus on for each group. Some teachers need more time to increase their technology literacy while others just need time to develop lessons and activities. BUT...everyone is always interested in the latest technology and how it can fit into education.

If I had it my way, I would just spend the day showing you cool videos from YouTube like
My YouTube Story
The Mom Song

but alas, there is more to technology integration than this.

So...what are some of the things we will be exploring this year...

This year we will be incorporating Bloom's Taxonomy into our technology exploration. There are some great resources for the new revised taxonomy and how it applies to the 21st Century learner.

We will be taking a page (or several pages) out of Classroom Instruction that Works. We will be looking at the 8 most highly effective teaching strategies and what emerging technology works best with each strategy.

Hmmm...sounds like the old school staff development is making a come back - watch out, next we will be studying brain research. If you have been in TILT, you know that is not the case. We will have some great, engaging days.

In Phase III we will be doing a lot more collaboration - get used to Google Docs and wikis folks.

In Phase II there will be more time spent developing lessons and classroom activities.

In Phase I...well, probably the most structured phase, we will explore all kinds of technology. We will start with the basics but work hard to explore many new tools.

One thing to keep in mind. This year my goal is to produce a podcast on how we have been integrating technology in our district. If you have a lesson or activity where you are integrating technology, please invite me!! I want to document as many of these innovative activities as I can.

Be sure to check out our agenda blog to get specifics on our upcoming meetings.

University of Wyoming Football Game - & My Blackberry

2008-09-03T09:46:00.001-07:00

I am experimenting with posting pictures from my Blackberry Curve. I can really see a need for a Blackberry for every student! :O)

Can you imagine the type of collaborative projects we could do with other classrooms around the world...sounds like the basis for a grant to me.

Blogging In Billings

2008-08-29T08:51:00.000-07:00

Wow! I am so proud of my TILT teachers - taking the initiative to create classroom blogs to use with their students and parents. AND...teaching other teachers around the district to do the same! I think you are going to find some great information and classroom ideas from these folks:

Here is a list (some are by invitation only, so not listed):
Connie Jensen - 2nd Grade
Jamee Wilson - 3rd Grade
Julie Betts - 3rd Grade
Doretta Lambert - 3rd Grade
Sandy Anseth - 5th Grade
Dan Erikson - 5th Grade
Sara Olsgaard - 6th Grade
Elizabeth Waddington - Middle School Art
Susan Veit - Middle School English
Marjorie Zeedyk - Middle School Reading
Doug Van Zee - Freshman Health & PE

Some Ideas of How to use a Blog:

Communicate with parents about classroom activities, homework assignments, and school events. (replace your classroom webpage)
Post Internet resources for students to use for research projects
Post assignments for students
Journaling for students

Book Reviews
Collaborative Activities
Creative Writing
History

Put lesson content for students that are absent on your blog
Post classroom calendar events
post assignments based on literature readings and have students respond, creating a kind of portfolio of their work.
post prompts for writing.
provide examples of classwork, vocabulary activities, or grammar games.
provide online readings for your students to read and react to.
post photos and comment on class activities.
publish examples of good student writing done in class.
show case student art, poetry, and creative stories.
create a literature circle.

A Little Font Humor

2008-08-28T14:44:00.001-07:00

This YouTube Video was shared by Poly Drive Elementary librarian Kelli Delaney. I think it is terrific!

Do You Believe in Me?

2008-08-26T13:54:00.001-07:00

This is a keynote speech from a young man from a Dallas elementary school. If you needed a reminder of why you do what you do...here it is!

Welcome Back: Classroom Ideas for Gadgets

2008-08-23T13:02:00.000-07:00

Many of you purchased digital cameras and camcorders over the summer and may be wondering how you can use them in your classroom. Here are some ideas for using these gadgets in the classroom.

Digital Camera Ideas:

Photos of vocabulary words.
Bulletin board photo journal of classroom activities.
Create a digital scrapbook of student’s year: art, handwriting, portrait photos, etc.
Create a personal or classroom alphabet with pictures.
Use pictures for concept illustration (art, math, science).
Make an electronic portfolio of student work for Open House or parent review.
Create an “About the Author” section of student writing books.
Use the camera to create a video yearbook.
For math ask students to take pictures of angles in the classroom or school yard.
Story Starters: Show a picture and have students write a story based on the picture.
Provide a series of photos and have students write a story using what they see.
Help students with vowels sounds with pictures
Take pictures of objects in different positions to study prepositions
Take pictures of objects or students showing different actions for verb identification
Take pictures of a tree throughout the year to study growth, seasons, weather...etc.
Decisions, decisions. Take a picture of a scene and ask the students to make a decision about what happens next.
Take two pictures and compare them using a Venn diagram.
Identify the parts of speech in a picture.
Create clock "flash cards."
What else?

Using a Video Camcorder:

Record early readers to document progress (share at parent/teacher conference).
Create a short video for the manners of the week.
Document student behavior for parents, counselors, principal. (positive and negative)
Document your teaching for self-improvement.
Document experiments for students who were absent.
Allow students to interview each other on a topic. (review items for a test)
Have students create a "how to" video for a HEPE activity.
Have students create safety videos for other students or your school website.
Record concerts or school activities for parents or absent students.
What else?

Welcome Back! It is going to be a GREAT year.

2008-08-22T14:45:00.000-07:00

Welcome back for another exciting school year. I know that we are just like the kids...these past months have drained our brains of most of what we have learned over the last school year. Well, I have put together a list of resources that will hopefully jump-start your thinking and get those synapses firing once again. Enjoy!!

Resources For Using Technology In Your Classroom

District Resources:
Links for Teachers & Students: http://www.billings.k12.mt.us/tilt/
• Access to Important District Resources
• Search Engines
• Educational Websites for Both Teachers & Students
• Technology Standards and Guidelines
• Technology Tutorials

Educational Blogs:
Montana Link Share Project: http://tiltlinkshare.blogspot.com/
Top 100 Technology Tools: http://www.c4lpt.co.uk/recommended/top100.html
Weblogged - Read/Write Web: http://weblogg-ed.com/

Other Great Educational Websites:
Apple Learning Interchange (ALI): http://edcommunity.apple.com/ali/
NOVA Online: Virtual Tour of the Moon: http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/tothemoon/explore.html
The Discovery Channel: Planet Earth: http://dsc.discovery.com/convergence/planet-earth/planet-earth.html
PBS – Yellowstone Park Virtual Tour: http://www.pbs.org/edens/yellowstone/tour.html
The Futures Channel: http://www.thefutureschannel.com/index.php

Great Web 2.0 Sites:
Del.icio.us http://del.icio.us
Blogger http://www.blogger.com
SchoolTube http://www.schooltube.com
TeacherTube http://www.teachertube.com
VoiceThread http://voicethread.com

Get them all! Visit Desiree’s Del.icio.us Site http://del.icio.us/caskeyd

Posting from Blackberry

2008-08-06T11:16:00.001-07:00

Today I am demonstrating how to post to Blogger from a wireless phone. In the email settings tab of the blog, you can choose an address to send a message to and Blogger will automatically post it as the most recent article!

I will try and add an image of last nights storm clouds as well to see if it shows...

Doug Van Zee

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

MCCE Summer Technology Conference a Success!

2008-08-06T09:52:00.000-07:00

MCCE Sumer Tech Conference

The Best of Series by Larry Ferlazo

2008-08-04T08:25:00.000-07:00

I stumbled upon this blog the other day while researching new web 2.0 applications. I forgot all about what I started researching and became immersed in this very informative blog post. Larry has spent a lot of time compiling these sites and you can spend a lot of time exploring them! Although I might change a few of his lists slightly, I learned a lot and added to my collection of resources.

Visit My Best of series to explore!

Google Earth

2008-08-03T11:31:00.000-07:00

What is Google Earth? Google Earth is currently available for download as a desktop application, although you need to be connected to the Internet to use it. Every time you open Google Earth, it automatically connects to Google's servers, giving you access to terabytes of geographical, political and social data. See related article on HowStuffWorks.com

Click here to begin to explore Google Earth

Click here to download Google Earth
Classroom activity "Size Is Relative"(.pdf)
Click here to learn about 5 cool, easy things you can do in Google Earth
Google Earth Users Guide
Google Earth BLOG
Content Area Google Earth ideas
.KMZ file resources: kmzlinks.com : Google Earth Gallery :
Other Links

Getting Started with Google Earth
About Google Earth Files - KML/KMZ
Google Earth Help / FAQs
3D Modeling Tools and Resources
Recommended Reading/Blogs
Google Earth Related Blogs
Sightseeing Sites
Google Earth Conversion Tools
Google Earth for Teachers
GPS Visualization Tools/Software
Google Earth Storm Tracking/Weather
Google Earth Games
Other Google Blogs

MCCE Summer Tech Conference: Power point files

2008-07-23T09:47:00.000-07:00

For attendees of the PowerPoint sessions, please use the link below to explore template files and some other Power Point options.

Power Point

Powers of 10

2008-07-21T10:15:00.001-07:00

Embedded Video

Blogged with the Flock Browser

Another Successful Year for TILT

2008-06-05T07:48:00.002-07:00

TILT showcase fun

2008-06-03T21:42:00.001-07:00

For some quick snapshots of the event, see the collection on Picasa Web Albums. If anyone is worried about their posterior or tongue sticking out...it is private. You may share the link or download the photos as you wish.

p.s. the giraffes love their new sib and are belted in ready for tomorrow's commute.

Jazzed about Jooce

2008-05-22T11:04:00.001-07:00

Holy All-In-One Tools, Batman!

If you have not had the opportunity to explore this AWESOME website, you are in for a real treat. Jooce is a one-stop everything website. With a free account you can email, chat, save files, share pictures...instantly share all your videos, pictures, and songs with friends as well.
The really cool thing is Jooce actually turns your browser into what looks like a computer desktop. You have a control panel to make the environment personalized, you can even set the wallpaper!
I think the thing I like best about it is the interaction it has with the user...it is just fun to play with even if you don't use it as your sole technology tool.

This is currently in my top 5 technology tools now...

Blogged with the Flock Browser

Preparing for the Showcase

2008-05-14T11:12:00.000-07:00

Everyone:
I will be in the Board Room all afternoon to set up the tables and such. You are welcome to come at anytime. The event will start promptly at 5:00.

5:00-5:45
Dinner: Taco bar provided by The Soup Place (Thank you Nancy Smith)
Awards: This year there are some special awards
Prizes: You will receive a ticket when you walk in the door and we will draw for prizes.
Video: Just something in the background for you to watch.
Note: You will be given a packet of items. There will be a colored card in your packet. Please sit at the table that has the same color table-tent as your card.

5:45-6:00
Setup your section of the showcase - look for your nameplate and place your items there.

6:00
Start Your Presentations! I just mean be ready to explain your showcase and explore other TILT member's work. Please make a concerted effort to visit all the other TILT teacher exhibits.

1st Year Teachers:
Because you are the student, please focus on the technology that you have explored and found valuable. You will write up a 1 page paper describing the technology and how you have used it. If you used it with your students (or your students used it), even better.
Showcase at least one project that you have created using the technology mentioned in the paper. Your showcase can be in any form you choose. Some examples are: multimedia presentation, video, binder of paper, plackard (three-fold style), brochure, pictures....there is no limit. Remember to make a copy of your 1 page paper for Desiree.

2nd Year Teachers:
Because you wore your teacher hat more this year, please focus on your curriculum and how you introduced technology into an activity to enhance your students' learning. In your 1 page paper, explain the classroom activity, the technology used and whether your integration was teacher-directed or student-centered. Your showcase can be in any form you choose. Some examples are: multimedia presentation, video, binder of paper, plackard (three-fold style), brochure, pictures....there is no limit. Remember to make a copy of your 1 page paper for Desiree.

Note: There are always exceptions to any directives, right! If you have actually started entering the "phase 3" and want to showcase a "Mentor" project...you are welcome to do that.

7:00
We are done! If anyone wants to stick around and help clean up, that would be greatly appreciated. :O)

Thanks for another successful year.

My Favorite Technology Tools

2008-05-14T06:59:00.000-07:00

Recently, I was sitting in the back of a room during a technology workshop. The speaker was asking, “How many of you use ____?” Each time I raised my hand. Finally, the lady next to me shoved a notebook and pen at me and said, “What are your 10 favorite tools?” It made me think…this is what we should be sharing in MCCE (along with the support and purchasing questions). So here are my favorite tech tools (available for both mac and pc) in no particular order:

Flock: new social browser - I think I like it better than Firefox!

VoiceThread: web 2.0 story-telling tool (kind of)

Inspiration: concept mapping software

Google….Everything!! …Docs, News Reader, iGoogle, Earth, Timeline, Gmail and more

Blogger: blogging software (Word Press is new to me)

Del.icio.us: social bookmarking - this is flocking amazing! Sorry, inside joke. My username is caskeyd…add me to your network!

iTunes If you think this program is just to play music...think again. You can get audio books, rent movies, watch TV shows....and that is just the entertainment part. Podcasts are free, contain all kinds of educational information, and...you can create your own! That is so cool.

TeacherTube, SchoolTube & YouTube: these video sharing sites will let you expand your bag of tricks and resources. You can find information on pretty much any subject and it is a social site, so you can upload your own videos and share them!

Other Tools (Fun & Function):

MooURL: Have a long URL, use this tool to shorten it when you are sharing with friends.

VLC: media player…opens multiple types of video including flash (.flv) and exports to multiple file types. Very handy!

UnPlug: an extension for Firefox that lets you extract media from websites.

VoiceThread: an online story creation tool that is super easy to use

Jooce: a cool website that turns your browser into a desktop environment - use this to share media files.

Skype: Chat software with video capabilities

SlideShare: a website where you can post and share your powerpoint shows.

Blog Sighting!!

2008-05-07T09:18:00.001-07:00

Check out this neat blog. It adds a nice dimension to using technology in the classroom. you can even sign up and send your kids to the moon. :)

Growing Up Online

2008-05-05T12:58:00.000-07:00

This is a very interesting look into the digital world put on by PBS and Frontline. It is definitely worth watching.

Visual Statistics: Using GapMinder.com

2008-05-05T09:05:00.000-07:00

If you have not heard of GapMinder, you need to check it out!! And then, you need to share this site with your co-workers. This site has some great visuals that can be used in math, social studies, science, health, business...almost any classroom.

Learn about trends in the world (climate, population, technology, health and more). To get started, go to this site and click on the GapMinder World Link. You will be impressed with all off the information you can uncover.

Bloom's Taxonomy Narrative

2008-04-28T13:28:00.000-07:00

I got this from my MT Cadre workshop. I think it explains the environment we have been working to create for the last two years in TILT.

Compare the old Bloom's to the new Bloom's.

A dynamic learning environment

Bloom’s Taxonomy and the World Wide Web are two pieces of a puzzle that forms a dynamic learning environment. With them in place, the remaining two pieces, the teacher and the student, will be changed. If the teacher creates a constructivist or inquiry-based classroom environment, then both teacher and student must behave differently to take advantage of the learning opportunity it affords.
The student

In an inquiry-based classroom, students are not relegated to the traditional desks in straight rows. Students are not empty vessels waiting to be filled. They assume an active role in which they must locate, evaluate, organize, synthesize, and present information, transforming it into knowledge in the process. (Note the distinction here from Bloom’s definition of knowledge — see below.) Students work collaboratively with classmates to explore a problem. This makes it possible for each student to come to his or her own understanding of a particular topic as he or she constructs knowledge. This environment is focused on the learning and is more student-centered than the traditional classroom.
The teacher

If the classroom has become more student-centered, then what does this mean for the teacher? Is he or she no longer necessary? Of course not. In fact, the teacher’s role is just as important as it has always been — if not more so. With a knowledge of learning styles and of Bloom’s Taxonomy coupled with access to the wealth of resources provided by the World Wide Web, the teacher works alongside the students. Teachers scaffold learning so that students can assume a more active role in their own learning. This means that lessons are in fact more carefully constructed to guide students through the exploration of content. Teachers’ instructional arsenal contains a greater variety of instructional techniques and knowledge of instructional design. Their role has evolved from the limited didactic form of lecturing once held as the standard view of an effective teacher.

Attention to Bloom’s Taxonomy does not mean that every class period must be optimally designed to place students in inquiry-based roles. Teaching requires that we constantly assess where students are and how best to address their needs. This may mean that on certain occasions it is necessary to lecture. In the long run, it means that the teacher balances methods of instruction by providing opportunities for the students to take some ownership of their learning. It means that it is more likely that various learning styles will be addressed. And it means that we may not hear the dreaded question Why do I need to know this? so often
Final thoughts: A Bloom by any other name

Benjamin Bloom did his work long before the advent of the "Information Age," and some of his terms conflict with the way we often talk about the Internet. It has become common to say that what students find on the Web is only information, and that they have to construct knowledge from that information on their own. If Bloom were devising his taxonomy today, he might call the first level Information instead of Knowledge.

Perhaps the point to remember is that it doesn’t much matter what you call it, as long as you teach it. Bloom’s Taxonomy is a convenient means of talking about higher-level thinking, but other taxonomies could be (and have been) designed with different names for more or fewer levels. If your students are analyzing, synthesizing, and evaluating, they’ll be able to decide for themselves what to call their ideas!

(excerpts from http://www.learnnc.org/lp/pages/bloom0405-1#4-0-0)

Thanks Daren for sharing!

Community Walk: Explore Billings!

2008-04-28T08:29:00.000-07:00

School Ideas

2008-04-24T15:08:00.001-07:00

Classroom 2.0 in VoiceThread

2008-04-22T13:03:00.001-07:00

Digital Storytelling at Burlington

2008-04-22T08:49:00.000-07:00

This is a digital story that I have also posted to the Burlington Elementary website. It was a lot of fun to create and if you haven't tried digital storytelling - well - you should!!

Castle Rock art expressions

2008-04-20T20:41:00.001-07:00

TED Talks: Is Creativity Killing Education?

2008-04-18T07:43:00.000-07:00

Sir Ken Robinson talks about the future of our educational system and how we are educating our students to not be creative. This is a very compelling argument for supporting creativity in students. Why am I sharing this?

The Revised Bloom's Taxonomy lists Creativity as the highest level for knowledge acquisition and learning.

21st Century Skills includes Creativity and Innovation.

Montana State Standards for Technology Integration includes Creativity and Innovation.

We know that technology has a vast collection of tools for students to create and be innovative. When we change our approach from teacher-directed to student-centered - which is true technology integration - not only are we allowing students to construct their own knowledge, but we are also supporting the use of tools for creativity and innovation. Although this video is a bit long...I thought it was worth watching and worth sharing.
To watch this video, visit TED Talks (an excellent resource).

The Dog is Always Blamed for the Eaten Homework

2008-04-17T13:20:00.000-07:00

Are We Keeping Up? A Quick Look at Emerging Technology

2008-04-14T12:13:00.000-07:00

Recently posted on the Internet was a top 100 list of E-Learning Tools. I quickly scrolled down the list and was amazed at how many we have explored in TILT. In TILT, we have a great advantage - time to explore or at least be exposed to new technology.

I hope that as you look through this list, you are encouraged by the level of awareness you are at for emerging technology in education. Of course there are going to be tools on this list that you and I have not had the opportunity to explore yet, but how cool is it to have a place where we can see what is considered emerging in the area of E-Learning.

Tell me, how many on this list have you explored? How many on the list are you at least familiar with? (I use or have explored 50, I am familiar with 96)

FUN!

Using Excel to Create Posters: Video Tutorial

2008-04-14T11:52:00.000-07:00

If you have not had a chance to check out some of the great videos available through TeacherTube, here is one that I think you can use for yourself, your students or clubs and activities.

Donor's Choose

2008-04-13T11:43:00.000-07:00

For those of you with creative ideas in your head about how to use some sort of technology in your classroom but have been disappointed because you can't seem to get your hands on it, this site is for you!! Donorschoose allows teachers to make a proposal that they would like to see funded for their school. Then, other people around the country read your proposal and decide to help you fund it. It is an amazing system. I was able to get an ELMO funded for my classroom. I am very excited about this website because I see it as a way to gain and give back to the education of students around the nation. Check it out!

Contest Winner! Tom Stahley

2008-04-11T13:11:00.001-07:00

Congratulations Tom for sharing a most spectacular gadget. I want to go out and buy one! The Meade MySky looks like a great tool to have along camping! You can get a guided tour of the night sky just by pointing this baby at the stars. It incorporates GPS technology, audio and video to help you learn about what you are pointing to in the sky. Just point and shoot to learn about planets, stars and constellations.

Now here is a technology that gets me revved up!!

Tom wins a $25 coffee card from City Brew.

Creating A Post in Blogger

2008-04-10T10:59:00.000-07:00

This is a post to remind you how to create a post.
(Warning: video takes a long time to load)

Contest: Share a website or tech gadget that revs you up!

2008-04-03T06:41:00.000-07:00

Give me an example of a technology gadget or website that really gets your heart racing! It can be one that you use for teaching, learning or for personal use. The most original (humor is always nice), thoughtful response will win a $25 coffee card to City Brew!

Using VoiceThread in the Classroom

2008-04-02T14:04:00.000-07:00

This is an example of how VoiceThread can be used in the classroom...keep your eyes on this site to see how our 5th grade classroom at Poly Drive Elementary is using VoiceThread!

Using GPS & Google Earth for Science Scavenger Hunt

2008-04-02T10:36:00.001-07:00

What a great day yesterday was! Tom Stahley, Denece Lord, Doug Van Zee and I created a scavenger hunt and posted our results onto Google Earth and created a .kmz file that we can share with others.

Integrating Technology into the Science Classroom:
The objective of our scavenger hunt was to identify signs of chemical weathering, oxidation, biological weathering, abrasion, and frost wedging.

We created a worksheet that contained the items we needed to find. Once we discovered an item on our scavenger hunt list, we recorded a waypoint into our GPS, recorded it on our worksheet, and wrote a short description of what we were looking at. We then took a digital picture of the item.

When we finished collecting data on all of the items on our scavenger hunt list, we came back to the Lincoln Center and entered our data into Google Earth. We collaborated to create a .kmz file so that anyone could see our efforts. If you click on the .kmz file, it will open in Google Earth and show you our placemarks.

We are in the process of creating a teacher resource document and tutorials for this classroom project. Watch the blog for those in the near future!

GPS Scavenger Hunt Photos

2008-04-02T10:32:00.000-07:00

Technology Use in the Classroom

2008-04-02T10:22:00.001-07:00

Understanding Symbols

2008-03-24T10:40:00.000-07:00

There are a lot of symbols for technology that are universal. This means they serve the same function no matter what technology you are using: computer, VCR, video camera...but, for some reason, adults don't realize this. So...to help you out, here is a list of common symbols and what they mean.

PLAY: When you click this button, your music, video, or audio will play

PAUSE: When you click this button, your music, video, or audio will pause. Clicking it again, will resume play.

RECORD: When you click this button, you will record audio or video. The color of this button is almost always red.

STOP: When you click this button, your music, video, or audio will stop.

REWIND: When you click on this button, your music, video or audio will rewind. Depending upon the media, it may rewind to a previous file or will continue to rewind until you click Stop.

FAST-FORWARD: When you click on this button, your music, video or audio will be fast-forwarded. Depending upon the media, it may move to the next file or will continue to fast-forward until you click Stop.

Are You Jing With It?

2008-03-20T10:12:00.000-07:00

Some of you might be reading the title of this post and saying...?HUH? So, if you are interested in capturing and sharing any part of your computer screen, then read on...

For those of you that need to or just like to explain how something is done on the computer, Jing just may be your answer. Jing is a program that instantly captures and shares images and video…from your computer to anywhere...your local hard drive, an ftp server or, the company (TechSmith) will host your files for you on Screencast.com. TechSmith, by the way is the same company that created Camtasia and SnagIt - two high-end, high-priced screen capture programs. Yep, I paid for and use these programs because they were what was available at the time and they are relatively easy to use.

One positive thing - Jing works on both PC and Mac, which is good news for those of us that are bi-platform.

Secondly, it is easy to use and has more functions available than just your computer's built-in print screen. Jing lets you do a live crop of the area you are trying to capture - after invoking the capture command, your cursor turns to cross-hairs and you select the area of the screen you are interested in capturing. After that you choose whether to capture an image or a video.

When you are done, you can click the stop button and you have the option of sharing the file on Screencast.com, uploading it to an ftp site, or saving it as a file. By default, it uses the date and time as a file name, but this is easily changed. TechSmith is really encouraging users to upload to Screencast.com so that they can see how people are using it.

Another positive - which for some of us that do a lot of video tutorials is HUGE - Jing captures the menus unlike a lot of other capture programs.

The final positive element of Jing is its price - currently it is free. For educators, that is a must.

I did a little research on Jing and found that there are a few limitations. Currently it only captures at 10 frames per second which is not a good rate for capturing streaming video, for example grabbing a YouTube video. It does work well however for illustrating the steps in completing a task in an application or walking through an interactive website.

Another limitation is the capture time is limited to 5 minutes and the file sizes are a bit large. The video is captured into a .swf file (Flash). This is nice because .swf is a format that is widely used.

So, it is easy to see how someone such as myself (Technology Integration Specialist) could use this program and be a better person for that...but how can we use this in the classroom?

One idea - I would love to take quick screen shots of websites I use with my students as visual reinforcement of a concept we are covering. There are a lot of animations on the web that I would like to have saved to my computer...for example the water cycle or plate techtonics. Once you find a really good animation, you want to keep it.

Another idea - When I introduce a lesson that integrates technology, I can capture my actions on the computer for creating a project to help the students learn that skill. For example, I can teach the students how to create a character analysis document in Inspiration or teach them how to download an image off the Internet, insert it into a PowerPoint...and copy and paste the web address for citing my source.

I will be using Jing to create some video tutorials. If you are interested in what a finished product looks like, visit the Technology Tutorials section of our website and click on Tutorials in Flash.

Easter Activities for your classroom

2008-03-20T09:21:00.000-07:00

Teacher's Guide for Easter Activities
Mrs Busy Bee Classroom

St. Patrick's Day Classroom Resources

2008-03-14T08:45:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple of websites you might find useful for incorporating St. Patrick's Day into your classroom activities

http://www.bbc.co.uk/northernireland/spring/patricks/
http://www.teachersfirst.com/holiday/saint_pat.cfm
http://www.enchantedlearning.com/crafts/stpatrick/

Share the Technology

2008-03-10T14:15:00.000-07:00

I thought that this site on sharing technology was very interesting. I also noticed that Montana was not on the list of being a donor recipient. I think this may be a good thing to look into if you are in need of a computer etc. Let me know what you think.

Creating Podcasts: Preparing for your Podcast

2008-02-29T14:17:00.000-08:00

This video explains how to use an ipod and italk to create an audio file for your podcast.

Using Podcaster to create a podcast

2008-02-29T13:30:00.000-08:00

This video tutorial walks you through taking an audio file from iTunes and placing it as an episode in Podcaster. You can use this tutorial if you are using Audacity to record your episodes. Just remember to export your recording as an .mp3 file.

The video also explains publishing the necessary files to complete the process.

Have Fun!

Video Tutorial: Blogging

2008-02-26T09:15:00.000-08:00

This video is a reminder of how you can create posts on a blog when someone invites you to be an author to their blog. A good example of this is the TILT Link Share blog...

Making Your First Post on a Blog

2008-02-26T09:00:00.000-08:00

After you have been invited to be an author on a blog, it is just a matter of knowing a few steps to create your first post. Watch the video below to learn how.

Network vs Internet

2008-02-25T18:45:00.001-08:00

Several teachers have asked me about finding the TILT folder on the Internet and every once in awhile, I see a teacher launch a web browser when asked to go to the TILT folder. AND...I have been asked why we can't see our server folders at home.

I thought it was time I explained the difference between a network and the Internet.

A network is a group of computers that are connected through cables or through a wireless connection. Typically these computers are in the same building or related buildings. Billings Public Schools is an example of a network. McKinley Elementary has its own network. When you use a network, you access files through your computer's operating system. You do not need to launch an application to locate files or folders that are saved on the network (saved to a server).

The Internet(a.k.a. The World Wide Web) is an information system of servers and clients that users can access data on other computers on a global scale (throughout the world). The information on the Internet is accessed by launching an application called a web browser. Examples of web browsers are Internet Explorer, Safari, and Firefox. The Internet is navigated through graphic pages that contain hypertext (Text with links to other text).

These concepts are explained on a pretty basic level, but hopefully it clears up some confusion about the two words: Network & Internet.

Kudos for Innovation

2008-02-24T17:26:00.000-08:00

Kudos for innovation is shared by two elementary teachers: Julie Betts from Bitterroot and Dan Erikson from Poly Drive. Both teachers have recently had training in using the ipod mp3 player & iTalk microphone to record audio. They also had training on creating classroom podcasts. Both of these teachers used these new skills and new digital tools to create classroom podcasts. Betts had her students read the biography reports they wrote. Erikson had students read poems from a variety of authors. Both teachers then published the individual student readings into podcast forms.

To listen to Mrs. Bett's biography podcasts, you can subscribe to her podcast in iTunes:
Copy the following link: http://www.billings.k12.mt.us/podcasts/thirdgradepodacast.xml
Open iTunes and from the Advanced menu paste the above link into the box for "Subscribe To a Podcast" option.

To listen to Mr. Erikson's poetry podcasts, you can subscribe to his podcast in iTunes:
Copy the following link: http://www.billings.k12.mt.us/podcasts/podcast2.xml
Open iTunes and from the Advanced menu paste the above link into the box for "Subscribe To a Podcast" option.

Watch future blog posts to learn how to subscribe to other TILT podcasts, and how to make your own podcast.

TILT days energize

2008-02-20T15:23:00.000-08:00

This is an experiment as much as anything. My students created collages using the National Gallery of Art website. They made screen shots and imported their artwork into a word doc. I uploaded their images into PhotoStory3 and created this little showpiece for their collages. To see more about their Romare Bearden experience visit the Castle Rock Art website.

What's up with that?

2008-02-20T09:16:00.000-08:00

Television has been talking about the digital changeover in 2009...does that affect us with older tv's in our classrooms? Or does it even affect us? Wondering...