As future librarians, we are put in a role that requires us to keep up to date and stay ahead of new trends when it comes to technology. One of the first things to consider when evaluating new technology is the impact it will have on the library and patrons. Some technology may not seem immediately appealing to libraries, but we need to take into consideration of our community's interests.
One of the tech resources we used that excited me the most was creating comics using various platforms. I learned quickly how comics can be a great way to introduce one another, teach new concepts, retell stories, and create book trailers. One of my favorite platforms to create comics was Pixton because it offered a comic school for those just starting out as well as able to choose different scenes, add actions to your characters, and change their facial expressions to fit the character’s words. I also liked that you can incorporate a rubric where students are able to rate their selves or their fellow classmates. Another tech resource I really enjoyed creating this semester is podcasts. This is something I want to start incorporating in the library with my students. This is a great tool for those that are not comfortable with videos to communicate or share their information with their audience.
The most challenging tech resource I created this semester is infographics. I do like how infographics are engaging visuals that communicate information quickly and clearly, but I had a hard time choosing which infographic would be best to get my information across clearly and narrow my information down to make it easier for the reader to understand without taking away the visual aspect of infographics. Another challenging tech resource was implementing social media to promote libraries. I am very familiar with Facebook and Instagram, but was not very familiar with Twitter. I follow many librarians on Instagram and have seen the videos they have posted that included texts, music, and special effects to promote their libraries, but was unsure how they created these to make them so engaging until this course.
The most beneficial technology platform for students would in my opinion be screencasts because it offers students 24/7 online access to knowledge. Not only is it a great tool to use to deliver content, but students are also able to create their own screencasts to prove what they understand. Screencasts give students the audio-visual learning environment that is useful to those who learn best through seeing rather than hearing or reading. With screencasts, students can become more proactive by learning at their own pace. I also think students creating digital stories would be very beneficial because they could have a choice in which platform to use and show their creativity by showcasing their learning to their peers, teachers, and audiences beyond the classroom.
Your reflection is awesome! I also struggled with Infographics this semester, because I had a difficult time trying to figure out which infographic would house the information that I needed to present in a clear, concise way. Great job!
ReplyDeleteI love your Animoto! I also chose to use that app for my reflection. I think it is such a fun tool and I plan on using it with my students. I also really liked the Pixton app. I think that would be so fun for students especially since they love graphic novels so much. They can make their own!
ReplyDeleteI loved how you edited the pic to make it look like it was talking in you video. It is just amazing how creative we can be through technology. I created a cartoon for my final reflection. I wanted to try them all on the list from the website. Maybe eventually I will. I bookmarked it. Good work!
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