Module 5

This module is most illuminating because storytelling is such an enjoyable way to learn (and teach!). Digital storytelling allows another creative outlet for expression and while the children are engaged we can strike with some skills and guidance!
The possibilites are endless and with all the ready-made images, podcasts, vodcasts, youtube clips ... available we also find ourselves learning so much in the process.
The NASA and CSIRO sites offer a wealth of reliable information enhanced by fascinating graphics and interactive maps. The educational podcasts and vodcasts are inspiring - I have gained a few ideas there that I'm looking forward to trying out. I have been using itunes for quite a while. There are many interesting educational podcasts I have used. I also find it a convenient way to obtain various pieces of music - most of which I use at school, one way or another. Often I find interesting music for movement and drama lessons or teaching some other concepts through song from timestables to the solar system and British Colonisation. Sometimes there are educationa movies that are easier to hire that way and play through the smartboard.
Youtube has literally changed my life! No longer do we need to scour the video shops trying to find interesting footage of The Solar System or Antarctica or ... whatever. Short youtube clips can be accessed anywhere and enable access to remarkable footage for free. This is an amazing tool to captivate and motivate interest from the children.
We must also remember though, even though we can access it anywhere and constantly be excited about how we can use this and that in our classrooms, you don't have to be doing so whereever you are 24/7 and we can never replace the hands-on, out-and-about and getting your hands dirty experiences.