VoiceThread – check out this online tool
One of the biggest frustrations for people who want to use technology in the classroom but don’t see themselves as “tekkies” is the learning curve to master the process. You want to record the kids and post podcasts, but who has time to learn audio editing software, figure out how to create the feed and post to the iTunes store, right?
What we need more of are tools that allow us to focus on the learning experience for our students and the ultimate product – not the technology of it.
Check out VoiceThread. You post pictures, record your students’ voices (this is the bus we took to the zoo, this is the rabbi’s office, etc.) and you essentially have a slideshow with audio. Without having to master animations, timing, etc. Low tech.
An additional feature is that your audience can also record their comments – kind of like an audio blog.
I’m seeing first graders posting photos of them with their family heirlooms… and grandparents chiming in. From anywhere in the world.
Ideas?
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About
Debbie Harris is the director of educational technology at the Sager Solomon Schechter Day School in Northbrook, IL. Involved in Jewish education for over thirty years, she has an education degree from Northwestern University with a concentration in instructional media and a master’s degree in professional Jewish studies from Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership. She is skilled in using and teaching desktop publishing, video editing, presentation and animation software; and consults and presents regularly on integrating technology into Judaic studies. Her students podcast, blog, edit video and create claymations. She co-chaired the technology track for CAJE 33 in Vermont, is a SMART Certified Trainer for SMART Notebook, and a 2011 recipient of the Grinspoon-Steinhardt Award for Excellence in Jewish Education.
When not learning, teaching or writing about technology, Debbie likes to sketchnote and craft. She likes to knit, do calligraphy, sew, watercolor, paint fabric and just generally play with fun toys like scrapbooking supplies and anything with texture. Debbie travels to California every summer to paint tallitot with high school aged campers. Finally, she is incredibly proud of her two daughters; Lori, who teaches English at a community college; and Allie, who is the director of the URJ’s Camp Newman in California.
Look for her at:
Debbie Does Desktop
Flickr
Twitter
Diigo
YouTube
Ravelry
Email Debbie here
MuseForJews 
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