In learning the basics, I decided to make a Prezi about one of the topics in my Algebra II course, Arithmetic Sequence. Students have a difficult time differentiating what IS and what is NOT an arithmetic sequence. So, I created a two and a half minute presentation to help them discover the concept rather than simply giving a definition.
To make this happen in a more fun and productive way, I also used the Web 2.0 tool, Jing, to record the Prezi Presentation. Finally, I opened the clip in iMovie to add music from the iMovie library.
Now that I have created an introduction to the material, I plan to use another Web 2.0 tool that I use often in my virtual classroom, Elluminate. With Elluminate, I will take this another step further and teach how to use arithmetic sequences. Elluminate has a synchronous, interactive whiteboard that I use to display the content. This is very similar to the whiteboard, blackboard, or Smartboard in a traditional teacher's classroom. However, in my case, the students also have the ability to write on the board (if I give them permission to do so). Elluminate also features a chat box for instant messages and an audio feature in which students may hear and speak with me live if they have speakers and a microphone. I also record these sessions and store them in the "Resources" section of my announcement page so that students may use them whenever it is convenient. Here is an example of an Elluminate session:
Image included with permission from Elluminate and Florida Virtual School
If anyone is interested in learning more about any of these tools, please let me know. I will be glad to assist.
Your description of Prezi as "PowerPoint on steroids" is what drew me. I LOVE PowerPoint. I use it so much, I'm going to invest in one of those pointers that allows you to advance slides away from the computer. I look forward to seeing what kinds of projects I could create with Prezi. However, I do have some questions. Looking at the site, I noticed that the free version includes a 'small watermark'. So, did you pay for the version you are using, or is it really that small?
ReplyDeleteFar out, Amanda! I loved your Prezi presentation, AND I now know what an arithmetic sequence is, as well. Nicely done on the technology and the delivery of the content. I'd heard of Prezi, but I didn't know it was a Web 2.0 tool. Heck, I didn't know what Web 2.0 was.
ReplyDeleteI'm definitely going to check it out. Thanks
Amanda, you are amazing! I know you will open new doors for today's youth as you are capturing their attention through integrating music with math and great animation with Prezi. I am now excited to explore this tool along with Jing. Your video had great quality and kept me entertained and on my toes. I have never had such pleasure with learning a definition like I had watching your presentation. Nicely done and thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteAmanda,
ReplyDeleteYour example of the arithmetic sequence was phenomenal.
When you used Jing, to record the Prezi presentation, to finally open up this clip in imovie, made this presentation memorable.
This is another example of a Web 2.0 tool that I can use in my Action Research Project to enhance retention with my math students as well.