Twenty-first century learners are now being encouraged if not required to be familiar with an array of technology skills and tools. We as librarians are in a great position to be able to provide them with these tools. Taking this class has made me realize I must continue learning about new tools to implement in the library and introduce them to teachers so they themselves can use in their classroom.
I’ve learned that Podcasts provide a unique way to build critical thinking skills while bringing out a shy student’s voice. I found Podbean the most difficult to use and appropriate for older students that are tech savvy. My favorite 💛 because of its simplicity to use with an iPad, is one named VoiceThread, it would be an ideal tool for an elementary student. My 12-year-old nephew created a password, prompted to choose from either a microphone, from a computer file, or record with a camera, it was that simple. He's been recording his summer readings since.
Another easy to use tool that I would use to engages students in meaningful experiences and practice writing, reading and communicating is that of Cartoons and Comics. I would urge teachers to use comic strips app in their classrooms, they offer the usage of new vocabulary imagination, creativity, as they demonstrate their computer skills. I recommend my favorite, MakeBeliefComix https://www.makebeliefscomix.com/teachers/, This site lets you create comic strips with stick figures to create stories and make learning feel like art. MakebeliefComix does not require registration and is able to save, print, and download creation. There are minimal characters and symbols to choose from so you really have to use your imagination and creativity.
The easiest to use and the most beneficial for students that want to record videos is Screencast-O-Matic . It’s used to make short videos and photo slideshow and share it with others. Students can create short presentations on books they've read and share with their classmates by either acting it out or talking about them. I really enjoyed trying this app out, I was able to record clips explaining to students how to search the online OPAC from home for their assignment. This would also be great for teacher trainings and presentations.
I love how easily you can incorporate QR Codes on bookmarks, book covers, bulletin boards, book displays and even taped on windows, walls, and doors to promote the latest library material. QR Codes are best used for quick access to the resources the library has to offer and students as well as staff will get a kick out of using a device to get information.
I learned so many new tools to share with others, but for me, the most challenging assignment was to put my thoughts on a blog and have my classmates read them. “What if they don’t understand what I’m writing?” “What if I get a bad comment?” I don’t know why I was afraid, I realized it’s not that bad. Share a little, Read a little, Learn A Lot!
