There are several things that come to mind when creating a lesson that integrates multimedia technology. The first and most important of these is to think about how effective the technology tools will make a lesson. Teachers need to think about how using different tools will help them and their students reach the goal of a lesson. Will this audio clip be a distraction, or will it help students understand what we are studying better? Is this video clip pertinent to the information I want my students to know? If using certain multimedia will only distract or confuse students, then it is pointless. If it will truly engage them and make the lesson more effective, then by all means, it should be used! Another important question is to think about how easy the technology is for students to utilize. If a new multimedia tool is being introduced, some serious thought should be given to how quickly students will be able to pick up and use it to their advantage. Should extra time be set aside to teach students how to use the new tool? Do students already have a solid understanding of the tool? If the tool is something that is just too complicated or time consuming, an educator would want to look for something different; an item just as effective, but not so difficult to use.
According to Gardner’s Multiple Intelligence theory, students learn in different ways and through different experiences. I believe it is important to give students many opportunities to experience different multimedia tools in the way they receive information as well as a way to demonstrate what they have learned or understand. It is difficult however to meet every different intelligence or learning style in a single lesson. Teachers must continually create and give students the opportunity to create material that is engaging to more than just one kind of student.
Ashley,
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with you about needing to decide if it is adding to your presentation or just distracting from it. It's kind of like the professors who put all the annoying bells and whistles into their presentations. One every now and then to make sure that you are awake is one thing, but every slide flying in a different way and noises that last forever are a huge distraction. I'm glad to hear that I am not the only one that feels this way.
Ashley,
ReplyDeleteIt is so important to make sure that the video enhances a lesson and is not just being used for fun or as filler. The importance of having equipment that is not complicated and easy for students to use is also important. I am glad you included these very important issues to consider for all lessons not just lessons using multimedia.
Jane
Ashley,
ReplyDeleteIt is very important to remember that no matter the technology we need to ensure it will enhance our instruction, not take away from it...excellent point! This is another technology that we can use across all curriculum for a relatively small expense. You made some great points. Thanks for sharing your ideas on incorporating multimedia into the classroom.
Ashley,
ReplyDeleteI agree, it is so difficult to meet all of the learning needs and styles. But I also agree with you that this provides a limitless resource to us and to the students.
I like that you are going to have your students do videos. these could be shared and stored for future classroom instruction and/or resources.
I also appreciate that you are determining if the technology is appropriate at a certain level. I agree if we make it too complicated then it scares some students off. If we present it in a step by step process then, I think the students are able to better grasp it and develop their own skills.
I learned a lot from your blog, thank you.
Janice