Talking Text books and synthesis

http://www.cited.org/index.aspx?page_id=106

     This particular technology bridges a gap in certain classrooms that was difficult to cross. It is digital texts that can be read out loud by utilizing the recorded voice or specific speech programs. It also allows for the educator to create segments where feedback can be given or to advance the level of literacy, no highlighting of texts. For the visually impaired or the student who does not like or the student who finds reading difficult, this technology creates the opportunity for the paged texts to be heard which in turn supports the growth of key literacy skills like reading and comprehension, fluency and positive engagement and motivation. 

     We have too many students who are afraid to read because of varying reasons but that should not be the source of their anxieties and fears. This technology can alleviate some of the fears that can arise when reading aloud in front of peers. This is also a very positive method of identifying accents and proper pronunciations of words if you are in the ESL/EFL courses or someone who just wants to learn another language.

     The applications for this technology are boundless as it supports the growth of language on a whole. I would use it in my literature classes to help students who struggle with reading and understanding the written word. It comes with the action of “follow along” like karaoke words and this can be used to increase the speed of a student’s reading. As well for the ESL classes where mimicking the sound of the words is important, this program can be used to help them with reading and sounding of words.

Youtube/ Online videos

http://www.edutopia.org/youtube-educational-videos-classroom

     This has been a very confrontational topic because there are many videos on this site that are inappropriate for class use and so schools tend to block this site. However, the use of videos can improve the quality of the learning experience and Youtube.com provides a specific service that allows educators to register and set up a video list of materials from the educational video sites provided and use them in their classes as well as have students access them. 

     The way how students learn has evolved to a point where videos and video games have become second nature for them. So teachers have to compete with this ever expanding array of new tech and by utilizing videos they are able to reach out and in a sense connect with the millennium student. Having this connection is key to the learning process as it helps with inclusion, retention and motivation.

     I have used videos in my classes before and they have brought to life the works that students found difficult to understand by reading. The poetry recitals and stage presentations of Shakespeare triggered a positive response from the students because they are able to see and hear the differences instead of imagining them. I think that allowing students to video and present their own performances is an excellent way to bring them into the work they are doing. It allows them to treat the texts like it is their work and inspires creativity.