Chapter 9: Visualizing with Technologies

Chapter 9, like other another chapter in the book, started off with talking about different mapping techniques that can be used with students on the computer. For examples, the book talked about using Google Earth, as well as other GPS type systems, in the classroom for different lessons in geography. The book also had useful ideas for teachers to use in the classroom for visualizing math ideas with different softwares such as MathLab and Statistical Analysis System.

It is sometimes very hard for students to get concepts with just picturing them inside of their head. They need more to go on and something more concrete than just a mental picture. These types of models are especially good for visual learners and spatial learners. Students can also use these types of systems to represent their data.

I enjoyed reading this chapter a lot because of the fact that it went into how students an visual with digital cameras and phones. Almost all students these days have digital cameras and cameras on their phones. Teachers should take advantage of these devices and allow the students to use them in the classroom as a medium for learning. In the book, it had the great idea of digital documentaries. These can be about anyone or anything and this type of project allows the student to have a lot of control and creativity.

It is more fun for the students to make a video in the classroom about something and learn while they create than just to sit down and watch a video someone else made about something they may not relate to. This way, they are truly learning with technology, not just from it. They can also share their creations with the class and perhaps spark someone else s interest in a subject or medium.

I have used Windows MovieMaker before when creating a movie, but I am not by any means an expert. By the time that I start teaching, I am sure my students will be more familiar with these types of technologies and can show me a thing or two about how to use them. I am familiar enough with Movie Maker and iMovie that I could get the students started if need be and then let them explore the software and do different things with their movies.

More resources:
http://www.jumpcut.com/
http://www.picnik.com/