Roblyer and Doering offer the reader a number of options when it comes to hypermedia products from instructional software and interactive storybooks to reference materials and collections of development resources (2013, p.174-176). In an English classroom, the most effective tool often comes in the form of outside media that will make reading more fun.
U-Ventures’ interactive storybooks seem to do just that. The books are written in the “Choose Your Own Adventure” style that combines a traditional storyline with that of a game. The reader is given options to choose from that change the story and often dictate the outcome of their adventure. Each time the student picks up a choose your own adventure book, the experience can be completely different. While these books do not necessarily fall under the term “instructional games,” there is still something about choose your own adventure books that mimic “the motivational qualities of games” (Roblyer & Doering, 2013, p. 174). In addition, “various studies have reported positive impact of interactive storybooks on children’s enjoyment of reading and development of reading skills” (Roblyer & Doering, 2013, p. 175).
Podcasts & Garageband
While Garageband does not at first seem like a tool that can be used in an English classroom, the application’s other uses such as podcasting allows teachers of all disciplines to take part. “Podcast, a term that combines ‘iPod’ and ‘broadcast,’…originally meant posting audio on a website” ” (Roblyer & Doering, 2013, p. 189). While Roblyer and Doering go on to say that this word now encompasses video platforms, there is more nuance and creativity required to make audio interesting to listeners (2013, p. 189). In the classroom, teachers can record lectures, read aloud to their students, or assign homework. Podcasts like these will most likely be listened to outside of the classroom, but can engage the student in their down time. Students can also be tasked to create their own podcast episode.
Reference
Roblyer, M.D. & Doering, A.H. (2012). Integrating educational technology into teaching (6th ed.). Columbus, OH: Merrill Prentice Hall.
I love the idea of the "Choose Your Own Adventure" books in the English Classroom. I agree with Roblyer and Doering that it helps to "create a positive impact on children's enjoyment of reading and developing of reading skills" (page 175). Are there any of these types of books that you have found to be classroom worthy? Also, do you think the are irrelevant after a certain age?
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ReplyDeleteThe other thing I really like about garageband is that students can make their own music to go with projects or to help them learn new concepts. As a teacher putting things to music can be a very powerful tool. According to Robyler & Doering (2013) "Teachers can use either audio or video examples as a way to spark discussion or to help students analyze their own behavior" (p. 190). There are so many great ways to use this program. Great post!
ReplyDeleteI think recorded lectures would be an excellent asset to the classroom. If students have access to the lectures, then they cannot use the common excuse "I wasn't here so I don't know what y'all went over in class." At my current job, I see that nearly every child has access to the Internet in some form, and most schools have access to the Internet for those who do not have the Internet at home. Since files containing audio, or even video, can be easily uploaded (Roblyer & Doering, 2013, p. 189), accessibility should be a relatively minute obstacle, if at all. However, I am curious to see if students will begin missing school more than usual if lectures are more available. I know every innovation has its downsides, so more time and studies should reveal whether this technology helps or hurts more.
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