Emerging Technologies

I chose three different emerging technologies. The emerging technologies I chose to explore were the SMART board, Skype and Wikis. I chose these emerging technologies because I felt that these could be used in an effective way in the classroom.

The SMART Board is a new technology that will change the classroom. Teachers can utilize the smart board to create interactive lesson plans. The SMART board can be used as a white board or a sketch pad. The SMART board comes with notebook software that the teacher can utilize for lesson plans. The most exciting thing about SMART boards is that it can enhance any lesson plan or presentation for the classroom. Not only can the SMART board enhance the lesson but teachers can use the SMART board to cut down on preparation time. The teacher could use word or the notebook on the SMART board and be able to write notes on the page. This will cut back making overheads or having to write everything out on the whiteboard. Last of all technology could impact the students learning because they could be involved in their own learning. The teacher could have students come up to the board and demonstrate an activity or learned skill. The teacher could also turn the SMART board into a learning center in which the student could use various programs to enhance their learning. More information about the SMART board can be found at http://smartboard.com

Skype is a fantastic new emerging technology. It allows the individual to connect and communicate with various individuals around the world. All that is needed for this emerging technology is a computer camera and a fast download of the Skype program. This technology could have an impact on my teaching because I could have a Skype account to connect with other teachers, parents and maybe even children depending on what age group. I could use my Skype account to help improve teacher parent communication and have brief conferences with parents. Students could be impacted by Skype by using the program itself. They could potentially contact me if they have problems with homework or an assignment. Students could also use Skype to keep in contact with others or use it to work on a collaborative project. More information about Skype can be found at www.skype.com

Wikis are also an exciting new emerging technology. Wiki's allow individuals to create personalized websites with various education. You can put educational information on wikis or even use it as a way to post ideas and fun gadgets. Wikis can always be changed and if you are the creator you have endless things you can do with your Wiki. Teachers can use wikis by creating a classroom website. The teacher can use wikis to keep parents updated with lesson themes and lesson projects. Teachers can also use this site to create their own WebQuests. Students can use wikis by using their teacher's wikis to find information. Students can also create their own wikis on various projects etc. More information on wikis can be found at various wiki websites such as, pbwiki.com