Enhancing

=Title of Project: Podcast 5/ Video Podcast 3 - for= =Reading, Writing, & Testing Wise - "Utilizing the Public Library Online"=

=Date: May 25, 2010=

=Technology Standards Addressed:= __ Standard I: Technology Information Access, Evaluation, Processing and Application __ Access, evaluate, and process information efficiently and effectively __ Standard II: Communication __ A. Use technology effectively and appropriately to interact electronically. B. Use technology to communicate information in a variety of formats. __ Standard V: Integrating Technology into the Curriculum and Instruction __ Design, implement and assess learning experiences that incorporate use of technology in the curriculum-related instructional activity to support understanding, inquiry, problem-solving, communication or collaboration.

=Description of Project:= This video podcast utilized Snagit software and Photostory3. I chose to use this format because I had problems with running Jing on my home PC. Jing is my preferred means of screen-capture, however, I was able to use Snagit to capture shots of the PG Memorial Library System website in various stages. The benefits of this included adding text to the slides and images or icons such as arrows. This was great to help viewers find specific buttons on toolbars.

The purpose of the podcast was to demonstrate that the public library website is both easily accessible, but also a means to find answers and research. Many of my students state that when they have a question or want to find even an image online they go to Google or a comparable search engine. While search engines are great tools, they do not always helps students apply critical thinking skills. This is essential for them to evaluate various sources of information and determine their validity.

=Reflection of Activity:=

I think that this presentation is acceptable. My initial podcast for this document was going to be a collection of student interview responses about theme. However, the file was too large to load on both Podomatic and Teachertube. Additionally, I did not feel comfortable loading any student work onto Youtube, despite parent release. I feel strongly that Youtube is too heavily searched and viewed. Remaining conservative, I prefer to post student-released items only on Teachertube or other primarily educational outlets. On a different note, I need to find assistance and utilize resources such as Ning better. However, Ning remains a social networking site which I have not embraced much.

By using Photostory3 and Snagit, I produced acceptable quality images and narrations. This is a workable podcast to have students view and follow along on computers in small groups. I believe that the still images might not be clear enough to truly help them through the process and navigation of a library system website. As I proceed and use this venue more, I want to find another software similar to Jing to screen-capture. I want to continue the series in using online library databases to empower my students with stronger research skills and critical analysis of information.

=Link to document: Link to Podcast 5/Video podcast 3=