A Tempting Trio: Using Twitter, YouTube, and Diigo in the Classroom

Students speak about using these wonderful tools in the classroom. As one student said, "You have to keep your mind open and use the information that is available to you to your advantage." This is what we have to do as educators; open our minds. Listen to these students and how they are more engaged then before the existence of Social Media.

Afs8science. (June 21, 20012). A Tempting Trio: Using Twitter, YouTube, and Diigo in the Classroom   [Video]. Retrieved on 10 August 2012 from http://youtu.be/IKbDRz2IU_w

Online Cloud

Cloud: an online database that stores files and can be accessed from any location with internet access

Sugarsync is a secure cloud which will back up your online files and sync any file with other devices. Your data files such as documents, music, photos, and videso are now at your fingertips. I believe this is an excellent way to save space, save money, and save time when creating projects.

I recommend you try using this cloud for FREE. Simply click here to try Sugarsync now. The link will offer different plans that fit your digital style. If you scroll down to the bottom of the page, you can try it FREE.

5 GB Free Plan - Not a trial but a free account with no credit cards and no monthly payment. Sign up


Reference: SugarSync. (2011). Personal Cloud. SugarSync, Inc. Retrieved on 20 of September from http://www.sugarsync.com.

Teacher's Communicating Via Web 2.0 Tools

Teachers are taking advantage of the technology mediums available to communicate with parents and the community. Rodriguez Elementary Teacher, Mrs. Ayala, uses Facebook to update parents about the activities conducted in the classroom. Congratulations to Mrs. Ayala for receiving 400+ followers her Kinder Fun Facebook Page. Not only is Mrs. Ayala using Facebook, but she has also created a Kinder Fun Blog that informs the community about P.T.A., the curriculum, and classroom bulletins.

Mrs. Perea's Kinder Class has also jumped aboard the technology craze. You can become a follower on her Facebook Page or view classroom updates via her blog.

At Harlingen High School, Mrs. L. Salinas has also created a blog to inform her parents and students about the material covered in World Geography. She has also included benefical links for student research.

This avenue has been exciting and enriching for the educators, parents, and community members involved.

Let's continue moving forward with the use of the new technology tools!

Students Participate in Blogging

Coakley Middle School, among other schools within the Harlingen Independent School District are turning to technology and integrating lessons that are curriculum-based. As and English Language Arts and Reading teacher, I have created a Classroom Forum where my students will discuss and post their opinions which will pertain to classroom lessons and activites. I'm looking forward to increase student participation and keep my students engaged.

Mrs. D. Cedillo

Class Set Up Tool

Would you like to see what your classroom would look like before you rearrange your furniture? Well, now you can. Scholastic offers a free tool where you can create the floor plan to your classroom. This nifty tool allows you to add furniture, resize objects, and replicate your classroom all with a few simple clicks.

If you have already finished placing the furniture in your classroom but aren't 100% sure that's where you want it, here's your chance! Try this Class Set Up Tool. You are also able to print your floor plan once you are pleased with the layout.

Reference:
Scholastic. (1996-2011). Where Teachers Come First. Scholastic Inc. Web. Retrieved on 11 August 2011 from http://teacher.scholastic.com/tools/class_setup/.

Academic Calendar

Getting prepared for another academic school year can be a little stressful. Go ahead and check-off Academic Calendar from your list. I have found a free website that offers different calendar templates for this year's academic school year. I recommend you run the pages on tagboard, edit your calendar to your liking, and then get them coil bound at Office Depot.


Reference: CalendarLab. (2011). Free Printable Calendar. Web. Retrieved on 1 of August 2011 from http://www.calendarlabs.com/.