McLuhan’s+Tetrad.

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=toc Video Podcasts=

Video podcasting is a portable form of technology that enhances a few current forms of technology. Video podcasts send audio and visual feeds using a similar format as traditional podcast. This form of media has to potential to make obsolete or replace television via cable or satellite networks. Because videocasts are not confined to the linear television schedules as there has been traditionally, viewers can choose when and where they want to view their downloaded content. Also, if the podcasts can be enhanced by including a video recording of the same show, then podcasters may want to invest in technology that would support video podcasting. The form of technology video podcasts retrieves/ rekindles technology from the past is the old handheld television sets. Similar to this form of technology, it was a portable viewing device that let the viewer take their favorite shows with them where ever they went for free. I believe what might reverse or replace video podcasting is the television. I believe that television industry will eventually discover a method of integrating the positive aspects of video podcasting and portability. The iPhone or iPad may project television like images, while allowing consumers to take their free downloadable video podcasts or television shows where ever they choose.

I believe the application for video podcasting for the classroom is wide and varied. Teachers can record their lectures and/ or tutoring sessions for later viewings by students at a later time. Learners could use the technology to create videocasts about the content they are learning. Once completed, the option to share their work with an audience outside their classroom is available. Overall, I believe video podcasting is an emerging technology that has the potential to engage learners that surpass traditional teaching methods. -Jonah Tornberg

Jonah - I think podcasting and vodcasting is a great new technology that can reach a lot of students who just seem to struggle in some classroom situations. Whether it is listening to the teacher's lecture a second time or creating their own broadcast their level of engagement and learning is heightened. As a history teacher I dream about having students create their own news broadcasts about historic events - vodcasting could do this while easily. Students would be learning, engaged, and entertaining themselves and others all at the same time. Those are the types of projects that students remember long after the class is over. I also agree that I think TV broadcasting of shows is beginning its decline. With the advent of streaming video, it is going to be harder and harder to convince people to sit at home and watch TV at certain times to see their favorite shows. Already, the internet is beginning to take over - I, for example, do not have cable TV, but still watch my favorite shows by going to their websites and watching them virtually commercial free. Michael

=**Video Conferencing**=

Videoconferencing, along with video chatting, is gaining a presence in the modern classroom. It's potential impact lies in virtually eliminating geographical boundaries, allowing students access to experts in the field, exposing learners to a variety of cultures and fostering global citizenship. The benefits do not end with the learner, either, as videoconferencing can connect educational professionals, provide engaging professional development, This technology is available for use on computers, smartphones, tablets, and interactive whiteboards, enabling one-to-one communication, small group interaction, or whole class instruction and exploration, facilitating collaboration and improved communication. Skype, FaceTime, and GoogleChat are just a few of the tools available for videoconferencing that, when combined with other technologies such as Facebook, can be vehicles of transformation in educational settings.

Furthermore, videoconferencing needs just one computer or compatible handheld device in order to be utilized. Ideally, of course, an interactive whiteboard or telepresence screens would be accessible for an enhanced image display, but it is not a requirement. Many students come to school with smartphone in hand and have the capability of videoconferencing right from their desks. The software itself is inexpensive and often free, so districts with basic hardware already in house need not spend a dime to bring videoconferencing to their stakeholders. Add to this the benefits of built-in support groups such as Skype in the Classroom, and districts can leave teacher training up to the professionals who use the tools every day, without ever having to budget for inflated presentation fees or traveling trainers’ hotel rooms. I can see my superintendent smiling now. -Lisa Wilson

=**Ipods/Ipads in the classroom**=

Ipods and Ipads are an emerging technologies in the classroom that will disrupt many other forms of classroom functions. When holding an Ipod/Ipad students have a computer that is capable of surfing the internet, typing papers, has a GPS locator, and can be used as an assessment tool. This replaces everything from textbooks, a typerwriter, to the Walkman. Quizmos and other such gadgets cost about the same as a Ipod, yet perform only one function while the Ipod can do dozens of applications.

The impact of this technology will be profound for education. Last year I had the opportunity to use a classroom set of Ipods in my classroom during a year-end review activity. Students in small groups were assigned a unit and were to create a podcast by recording directly onto an Ipod that retaught the content of that unit to the other students. These podcasts were then synced so that all students had a portable audio review. Students proceeded to listen to all of the year’s units as taught by their peers and answer questions to assess understanding. I have never, in ten years of teaching, had students more absorbed in their learning. One visiting principal said “the level of engagement was tremendous.” And to be quite honest, the activity did not even go as smoothly as I had envisioned. -Michael S. Waurio

= = =Tablets=

I found the use of student tablets of interest for technology to invest in and develop its use throughout our school. Using McLuhan’s Tetrad enabled me to assess it an educational tool. Thinking of how tablets enhance students’ education brings to the idea of individualized instruction. Often the wide diversity of student skills in my 5th grade classroom drives me crazy how I can give each of them what they need. The tablet steps in to fill this need. I would hope this individualization would rekindle an interest in learning for the students who struggle and give up.

The integration of tablets in schools will lead to the obsolescing of traditional paper-printed books. This can have implications to the textbook publishers, and the lumber industry. Primarily, publishers will need to add an “e”version of their materials, including applications that target interventions and enrichment. The material on individual tablets will also reverse the solo research projects that students would sojourn on. Tablets provide a level of communication that collaboration on team projects need.

-Suzanna Tornberg

SMARTboards

Enhances: projects computer images on to a white board; functions as a computer on a larger scale for teachers and students alike to manipulate and participate hands-on activities for all to view and see.

Obsolete: The overhead projector

Retrieve/Rekindles: Large poster boards and flip boards, chalkboards, and dry erase boards

Reverses: Holographic

~Kuuipo Withington