After 11 Tools: Reflections

1. There are many tools I find useful. My favorites are Google docs, Photo story, and Delicious. Being able to access the same information on different computers or mobile devices is very convenient. The first tool I will likely use is Google docs. I plan to assign paragraphs to both my French III and French IV classes. They will do the writing in Google docs, edit and revise each other's work, then submit it to me. I, in turn, can comment further before the final draft is turned in.

2. Have I transformed my thinking about learning in my classroom? Yes. Although technology is not the end all, it can be an important resource and vehicle for individualized and group learning. I hope many discoveries will be made by my students throughout the year and throughout their lives. As a French teacher, authentic language and context becomes more accessible through using the tools.

3. Any surprises? Yes. Some tools were much easier than anticipated. Others were much more difficult. I do feel rather overwhelmed after completing the course, but, at least, I am more aware of what is available.

Tool # 7

This was probably the most challenging tool besides the initial set up of the blog. I don't know how to improve the photo quality and the text on the photos. Some worked and some didn't.

Students would likely have more success than I. They could use Photo Story to create original stories using various verb tenses, etc. Could be a very useful tool.

Unfortunately, I cannot figure out how to upload the wmv file. It's on my computer somewhere.

Tool # 11

Digital citizenship is an extremely important topic. Students and adults need to be aware of the security and safety issues as well as observe the appropriate netiquette. They also need to learn to go beyond the first item in a search and to verify the authenticity of whatever they are researching.

The SBISD link and Digiteen website provide excellent information on the topic. It could be presented through various media as well as posting rules in the classroom. Perhaps a subject area presentation made by WAIS teachers and students could also be used to teach students. Short presentations of the WAIS News might provide a point of departure for discussion. We have a responsibility to model and teach good digital citizenship.

Tool # 10

I explored Air Sharing, Open Clip, and I Touch flashcards. There were so many to choose from, it was difficult to pick. The first two make it easier to upload documents, create an extra monitor, or copy and paste with ease. They would be great for the Google docs, too. The I Touch flashcards would be a great, paperless way for students to create their own flashcards that are always with them. Very useful for the Foreign language classroom, or any other classroom.

Tool # 9

1. The screenshot capability could provide instructions on how to use a French website. Students could also create their own for informational purposes or presentations.

2. I've heard of Skype and seen it frequently on Good Morning America. However, I didn't realize it is free! What a wonderful tool for the foreign language classroom. I like the idea of a class corresponding for a while, then actually seeing each other via the web. Wow!

Tool # 8 part 2

Here's the second video.

Tool # 8

I chose a video that shows a portion of the July 14th Independance Day celebration in Paris. Students would gain cultural and historical insight about France.

I also chose a video on the Tour de France, the most popular cycling event in France.

Tool # 6

I have consulted Wikipedia numerous times and am somewhat familiar with Wikis. It would be a great collaborative tool for the classroom. A group could create a project together through the Wiki.

Tool # 4

1. I've created a Google document and sent it to Juergen Mueller.

2. Subscribing to the same blogs as in the previous tool.

3. These tools will be invaluable as students can view, edit, etc. each other's work. It is especially great that they are accessible on any computer without having to save to a flashdrive or send it via email. No more excuses!

4. I have used iGoogle as my home page on my personal computer but was never aware of these wonderful tools. I now understand how the subscriptions work!

Tool # 5

1. I joined Delicious and found 2 interesting websites for viewing French TV online.

http://www.pluzz.fr/

http://www.tv5.org/

2. I love the idea of sharing and exploring bookmarks created by other people. I also think it's great to be able to access bookmarks from any computer. I cannot tell you how many times I've found a website, then I cannot find it again. Anyone else ever experienced this? Students could also benefit from sharing bookmarks with classmates and teachers.

Tool # 5

1. I joined Delicious and found 2 interesting websites for viewing French TV online.

http://www.pluzz.fr/

http://www.tv5.org/

2. I love the idea of sharing and exploring bookmarks created by other people. I also think it's great to be able to access bookmarks from any computer. I cannot tell you how many times I've found a website, then I cannot find it again. Hopefully, students could share with teachers and other students to explore useful websites.

Tool # 3

I've added 2 gadgets to my blog: Flikr spell and Wordle. They were so easy to use and lots of fun. These and others will provide opportunities for creativity for my students.

Tool # 2

1. I am looking forward to the blogospere and being a part of a PLN. I think it will open new opportunities for communication for me and my students in French and exploring the francophone world.
2. Being humble and validating others' comments stood out to me. There is so much to learn. I need all the help I can get.
3. People I chose:
Lindsey Braden
Terry White-Hodges
Diane Nizza
Juergen Mueller
Cheryl Wegscheid

Tool # 1

SO easy to do! I think this may be fun. :-)