Evaluating Technological Tools

One great technology tool that can help create a global network and understanding of other cultures is Meograph.  It is a “four-dimensional storytelling,” (Meograph, 2013) interactive website.  My kids used it for a lesson they gave on the Vietnam War.  They enjoyed it because you can add maps, video, and pictures to a timeline.  In their project, they pinpointed specific events occurring in Vietnam, then discussed what was happening in the United States at the same time.  It would be a great project for kids to collaborate with other kids on a global perspective as well.  My students could document a time period and the events in the United States during the 1920’s while a group of kids across the world could discuss what was going on in their country during the same time frame.  Kids could draw comparisons or make connections as to the influence one had on the other.   

Another wonderful, interactive, engaging website is Prezi.  It is a non-linear presentation tool on which kids can collaborate.  Again, my students used Prezi for a presentation on the Vietnam War and although it took a while for some to get the hang of it, it could be used for the same plan as mentioned above using Meograph.  

Finally, another website I’ve used that could help make a global network is VoiceThread.  First, my kids created visuals illustrating what they learned about Gandhi, then they read their reflection, and then typed comments on each other’s work.  Again, in working with a global network, kids could create a visual about themselves, or an interest, or a place to which they’ve been.  Kids from other countries could then comment on these visuals and share experiences or ask questions.  This past year, we had a student who used VoiceThread while he was learning English as well as American History.  He created a Thread about the Statue of Liberty.  We then shared it with a few of other students who commented on what they knew about the Statue, but also commented on what they did when they visited NYC.  It was great because my kids typed their questions and the student learning English could take some time to translate and process them, then either type his response or practice his spoken language and speak it.  One problem I’ve had with VoiceThread lately is that it can be slow at times, especially when 24 kids are trying to use it all at once.  In order to avoid this obstacle, I often give VoiceThread as an option, so not as many students use it at the same time.

Reference

Meograph. (2013). Retrieved July 28, 2013, from Meograph website: http://www.meograph.com/