Powerpoint & Video Reflection

This week in class, we were assigned to create a powerpoint project for elementary students. We created instructions and an example/template. We also used google documents to collaborate back and forth. My group created a "county report" on Powerpoint that we believe could be used at a fourth grade level.
As an educator, I think it's very important to realize not only how using technology will affect you as a teacher, but also how you can let your students use it to learn. Letting students play with computer programs such as Powerpoint can be such a positive experience. Putting together their own slideshow on a desired topic can be such an accomplishment for an elementary student. I loved creating a project from a student's point of view and trying to understand how my instruction would be interpreted by a fourth grade student.
Completing this project helped me to realize how my ideas are interpreted by others, something that I think is very important to remember as a teacher. We might think that just because we understand something, everyone does, but it is important that we create projects that are the appropriate grade level. If this isn't done right, it is something that could make using technology a negative experience for students throughout their education.
I really like the idea of using Powerpoint because the possibilities are endless. I loved looking through the Powerpoint book we used to see all the different projects available to use in the classroom. Looking at those projects was a great inspirational tool that allowed me to think of several projects on my own. It would be fun to let your students create an "all about me" presentation on Powerpoint. I think all of the options available on Powerpoint would allow the students to make their presentation very original because they could pick their font, colors, backgrounds, pictures, transitions, and so much more.
I also think using Powerpoint in the classroom would be a great way to create a paperless project. This is one of the things I love most about using technology. It would make it much easier for teachers to stay organized and accept students' work. With everything becoming so paperless, it would be a great tool to help acclimate students to using the internet/email to turn things in.

Video Reflection:
I really enjoyed this week's video. It was awesome how Jordan went through each school subject and told why that subject has helped her learn about chickens. The things she is learning in these subjects are helping her right now and will help her in her future career. I think when students are able to learn more about their own interests in a particular school subject, they are more likely to excel in school.