Taking the Next Step with Technology

I have been fortunate this semester to be introduced to many great texts about writing and the teaching of writing.  In my last post I talked about four great books I've explored and have shared (or plan on sharing) with my colleagues.  My writing class this semester is an online course.  At first I was a bit skeptical of how the course would play out (I had never taken an online course before).  However, I am so thankful for the opportunity to be a part of a digital community.  I have learned much about technology and writing.  I now have a few more tools to add to my writing/technology toolbox.  With the adoption of the Common Core Standards last month, I am excited that I am a bit more "in the know" when thinking about how to integrate technology.  I have just gotten a taste technology, and I am thirsty for more!

Our instructor introduced us to many interesting articles about writing and technology this semester. I have also read and explored other professional writing texts.  One text I'd like to talk more about is Lisa Miller's Make Me a Story: Teaching Writing Through Digital Storytelling

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What I loved about the book:

• The book is highly organized and has friendly language that ANY teacher could easily understand
• Lisa gives a step-by-step process of  "how" to create a digital story
• It gives a great argument for WHY we need to teach digital storytelling
• It validates what teachers are already doing in the classroom without computers
• The explicit steps make teachers feel at ease with taking their students to the next step by integrating technology
• The digital storytelling process could easily be implemented K-6 (and beyond) with some modifications
• It comes with a CD with examples of digital stories!

Big Nuggets:

• Microsoft Photo Story 3--it is very easy to use!
• Lisa simplifies the elements of a digital story
• The "Resource Boxes" provide many helpful links for art and sound
•       Examples: http://school.discoveryeducation.com/clipart/
•                       http://www.kitzu.com/
•                       http://www.soundzabound.com/
• Lisa links us to other digital storytelling communities: http://www.storycenter.org/index1.html
• Chapter 4:  How to make it happen!

How it will impact my teaching and learning at our school:

• I have partnered with a second grade teacher this year, and we plan to try this on with her second graders.  I think the digital storytelling will be a great vehicle for the students "how to" books.
• It will be a tool I will use when working elbow to elbow with teachers as I support them in their teaching
• I work closely with a special education teacher who is always eager to try out new teaching strategies.  She has been looking to integrate technology into her classroom--this would be perfect for the students she works with.

I recommend this book to:

• K-6 teachers
• Technology Teachers
• Librarians
• Elementary principals
• Undergraduate education students
• University instructors working with education undergraduate and graduate level students