Reflections Chapter 9 - How can my students use multimedia for their projects?

The book says that we can use multimedia for presentations to explain and elaborate on findings that can be enhanced by motion and/or interactivity. So we could use multimedia in presentations to show video of any subject matter. A class could use audio files in a historical time like to reflect political views of the time. The uses are unlimited.

Reflections Chapter 4 - How can students use of different types of software help improve scores on state tests?

There are many types of programs available that can help improve state test scores. Programs like No Child Left Behind have created a need for programs made to increase results in high-stakes tests, like Riverdeep's Destination Success. It is important to remember that teachers should read product reviews to know what kind of software it and what other users though of the results.

Reflections Chapter 4 - I understand why students should use educational software and the Internet, but why should my fourth-grade students learn to use spreadsheet, database, or video edidting software?

Programs like spreadsheets and databases have clear connections to math skills. We can use them to track and display data for many different lessons. Their easy use and manipulation make it easy for students of all ages to get value. video editing software can be a fun and exiting creative activity, even fourth graders with some instruction can edit digital video to keep track of different stages of student work, they are also great tools to record student performance. Teaching these skills to students at a young age will only help them more lather in life.

Reflections Chapter 4 - There are so many types of software: how do I know which ones to include in my lessons?

The best way to know what is best for each lesson, is to gain familiarity the five common types of software and their uses.

1. Productivity software - are programs like word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, and database. These are great tools for all sorts of lessons.
2. Research software - are Internet browsers like Internet Explorer, search engines like Google, and plug-ins like flash media player. These are great when students need to do reports.
3. Communication software - E-mail like yahoo.com provides, lists, discussion boards, blogs like this one, and other type Asynchronous type software. While asynchronous works one message at a time just like snail mail, synchronous communication like instant message and chats happen real-time and are easy fun ways for students to connect out side the classroom.
4. Problem solving software - are programs like game and simulations. Drill and practice games can reinforce current information or teach new stills. Games have a competitive and motivational effect on learning. 
5. Educational software - we see more drill and practice programs, tutorials, and integrated learning systems. These types of programs offer comprehensive learning environments that offers, instructional material, practice and feedback.

With the knowledge of what is available we can make better choices when deciding what type of technology will best supplement the lesson.

Reflections Chapter 3 - How can the cost of digital devices be justified when the functions they perform are so limited in number and scope?

Digital devices may have limited function, but their are may ways the functions they do have can be used. Most digital devices work with other technology over a five- to seven- year spread, this means they will work with older or newer computers and extends their value. Digital Media Players have many educational uses, that allow students to have easy access to digital and video files through internet interface much like iTunes. Digital Cameras give students to have an interactive and creative way to create presentations.  Personal response systems, much like used on trivia game shows, give teachers the ability to poll students while teaching to measure understanding of topics. All these digital devised provide easy ways to send and receive data. So although they may have limited function they can be used in many ways. They have huge educational value.

Reflections Chapter 3 - Most destop computers do the same things as mobil devices, so why do teachers need to use both?

Although both desktops an laptops have a lot of similarities there are also lots have different advantages. Laptops are more mobile, they can be taken to different locations around the school and classroom. With the use of wireless Internet students now have access to the Internet anywhere and anytime. Desktops maybe stationary but have increased durability because of it, laptops have batteries that can die and are easily broken if dropped. An advantage over laptops not mentioned in the book is their ability to be upgraded; laptops have very little that can be upgraded after manufacture. A classroom that uses both of these computer types has move ways to effectively manage use, some students could be using the laptops and other in groups could do drill and practice at a more easily shared desktop computer.

Reflections Chapter 3 - Why is it important to learn about different technology tools when they are constantly changing?

The text states that although new technology is being release, most are backwards compatible. This means that they all work off the same basic platform. Newer technology will usually work with other technology over a five- to seven- year spread. So if a teacher knows how to use a desktop they would really beadle to use the newest laptop because they are the same basic functions. Also as technology advances we find new ways to use it in the classroom; we need to keep up to date so we move with the times.