FLICKR
Flickr is a "Web-based digital photography portal" (Richardson, 2010, p. 102). I find it to be an interesting educational tool due to the many ways it allows imagery to be used in learning environments. Flickr offers an alternate method of information sharing. Ideas and concepts can be explained visually. Learners can use images to build on what they already know and are interested in (Laureate Education, 2012a). As a future educator, I would ask learners to create webtours using photographs and other images of their choice. I would also have learners to visually express their personal ideas, interests, and understanding of information. Flickr has an annotation feature, which allows users to "add notes to parts of the image simply by dragging a box across an area and typing text into a form" (Richardson, 2010, p. 104). The URL below provides additional uses for Flickr in the education.
http://www.jakesonline.org/flickrinclassroom.pdf
References
Laureate Education (Producer). (2012a). Using digital media for learning [Video file]. Retrieved from https://class.waldenu.edu
Richardson, W. (2010). Blogs, wikis, podcasts, and other powerful web tools for classrooms (3rd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press.
PODCASTS
"Podcasts are digital audio or audio/video recordings which are made available to users through online systems which can store, and in some cases, permit downloading and delivery of files" (Bronx Community College, n.d., para. 1). This technology appealed to me due to the opportunities for collaboration and communication it presents. With all of the typing and swiping being done today, I welcome technology that promotes actual speaking. Podcasts also enhance problem solving and critical thinking, which is essential for social change and challenges. As a future educator, I would have learners to collaborate to produce podcasts for purposes of sharing information, discussing scenarios, and promoting further conversations with questions and thought-provoking concepts. I would also ask learners to share their perspectives then solicit additional viewpoints from others. The URL below provides additional information about podcasting.
http://www.howtopodcasttutorial.com/what-is-a-podcast.htm
Reference
Bronx Community College (n.d.) Podcasting at BCC. Retrieved from http://www.bcc.cuny.edu/CTLT/?p=what-is-podcasting
