Visual Literacy and the Internet

In the 21^st century, we live in a very visual and digital world, therefore incorporating visual literacy and the Internet in the classroom will only enhance the teaching and learning experience. Visuals provide students with a deeper understanding of the text. The Internet is a medium to find various real world images, as well as a plethora of information that will allow students to apply their previous knowledge to construct new understandings.

Currently, I implement a few visual literacy strategies in my classroom such as Power Point to present new information; K-W-L and flow charts to help students make connections and organize their thoughts; an assortment of graphs, as well as political and physical maps.  However, I would still like to explore student created web pages, interactive movies, and graphic novels.

In my classroom, I use the Internet as a teaching tool. It allows my students to explore beyond the classroom walls and provides resources that extend beyond me. Presently, we use the Internet to research information, view educational videos, and play interactive games. As a 21^st century teacher I am considering using the Internet to communicate, collaborate, and publish through email, web pages, and blogs. As I learn more about how to successfully implement these tools I am more than willing to try!

·         Check out this video, Learning in the Digital Age, that my classmates Jeffery Faerber, Stacy Marr, Nicole McGowan, Melissa Padgett, and I created about visual literacy.

If you are a teacher in the 21st century make sure you don't get left behind! Make sure that you are prepared to prepare your students for the 21st century!!!

Instructional Strategies and Technology

It is important to use a variety of instructional strategies, because each student’s style of learning is different.  Consequently, the teacher’s method should vary throughout the lesson to reach each student in the classroom. A teacher can help students take in and retain information better, by identifying the way students learn. Even though a student may have one preferred way of learning, they can benefit from the teacher presenting information in various ways. A teacher that does not take the time to differentiate instruction and tap into the multiple intelligences of the classroom is not providing all students in the class with a quality education.

Technology can motivate students, encourage curiosity, promote higher order thinking and problem- solving skills, and enhance any instructional strategy. Students of the 21^st century love technology and they are intrigued by its possibilities. Teachers who implement technology in their lessons already have the advantage of capturing their students’ attention. As a 21^st century teacher, I will strive to find more ways to incorporate technology so that my students have the upper hand in their educational endeavors and future careers!

• Check out this link, Instructional Technology, for a list of sites that promote technology in the classroom.
• Here is a picture of my students using our Promethean board:
  

  
• Here is a video about Integrating Technology in the Classroom, using a Promethean  board.