VoiceThread's success comes in its simplicity. It's concept is easy: comment on this or that. However the ramifications of such a miniature task can be huge. As a teacher, I am always conducting brainstorming activities with my students. How easy could it be to post a picture or video and have students type in their ideas and concepts, and then feed off others. This is a great opportunity for students to achieve the goals of brainstorming without necessarily being within the classroom environment. It can also provide students with a little variety in class.
One movement that has gained a lot of attention within the education department is the expectations of Indigenous students. The Australian Government has moved for an invigoration of teacher standards and expectations when it comes to addressing an Indigenous student in the classroom. While everyone has an opinion on this topic, it is expected of teachers to forget common perspectives and teach content in different forms that can not only help Indigenous students, but provide a community feel to activities as well. VoiceThread allows a collaboration and opinion within the small community of the classrooms where Indigenous students, who may be otherwise too shy to speak in front of everyone, an easy method to have their voice heard.
Davis, J & Grose, S, Which way? What happens when embedding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives in scholls meets the professional standards for teachers and an accountability matrix?, http://www.strongersmarter.qut.edu.au/docs/papers/Which_Way_by_John_Davis_and_Sharon_Grose_for_Wipce_2008.pdf
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Hi! Damian
ReplyDeleteVoice Thread is also useful for Indigenous story telling. When I was in Broome, my daughter's school often invite the local indigenous elder to tell their story. This experience can not go on as they are simply getting old and some of them will past away near future. If they can keep their story on Voice Thread, it may be powerful and rich digital story telling for all to share.
Regards
Makiko
Hi David
ReplyDeleteI didn't think of this from an indigenous perspective, what a great way for them to share their stories. I too loved VoiceThread for its simplicity. Which would make it one of the premier tools, in my opinion, that we have used so far. Its easy for the less technolgically gifted teachers and students to use, and once they are 'hooked' into this technology it could give them confidence and interest in learning more.
Cheers
Michele
Thanks everyone,
ReplyDeleteYou have made some excellent points, adding to my blog your expertise in the area.
Regards, Damian.