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.
