Never Too Young

Sharon Betts' in "Never Too Young" shared three innovations or ideas about using technology with young children. I will admit that I had a two-fold purpose in selecting this presentation! First, I needed to select something for my class assignment! No brainer here! However, the reason I was intrigued with this title was my grandson Colton. I have been working with Colton on reading fluency over the past 6 months and realize that technology energizes his learning. It is much more fun to read Fry words on a PowerPoint than on a sheet of paper! I thought I might discover ideas to make our sessions more fun and allow him to learn technology along the way.

The first main topic is the use of VoiceThread, a conversation around various forms of media. I can see this potential as a record of his reading fluency and for a way to hear himself read. On a high school level, VoiceThread would be a powerful tool for art critiques and art history discussions....or discussions on any topic. The only drawback I see to this is the cost of the service. While it is not great, it might limit it's use in the classroom

Dipity, a timeline organizer, is the second idea Sharon Betts suggested. With the ability to include photos and images, this tool would provide a fun way to examine what was happening in the world during a particular art period. Student research would be easy to organize and visual through Dipity.

Blogging is the final technology tool recommended for young learners...even the very youngest! Because I believe reading and writing go hand in hand, I am going to set up a blog for my grandson to read and respond to and may even invite others to join in the discussion. What a way to make learning relevant! In the art classroom, blogging would allow my AP students to exchange ideas and comment on other's work....making my classes a learning community!

Although I had to download this presentation twice (the first time only half had audio), it was well worth the time and effort it took to view. Sharon Betts has a wikispace with additional links and resources as well as her presentation which can be accessed at Never Too Young. Although her presentation is targeted for teachers of young students, the principles and tools demonstrated are applicable to any age group!