Friday, December 11, 2009

Week 14, Module 5

These modules gave me information about people with disabilities that I will continue to utilize, especially in how to properly help them.  Thus I feel the etiquette and awareness portion was the most beneficial and valuable.  

Though it was helpful, I would not recommend this tutorial.  I felt the "23 Things" tutorial was much more informative.  Much of the information about disabilities and assistive technology, I had acquired through an undergraduate course, one required of anyone entering the education field.  The information may have been repeated for students as well.  Additionally, there were many broken links throughout the modules that need updating.

It was asked if we plan to read any books on the LibraryThing booklist.  While I would love to, my graduate studies are taking priority, not offering much time to explore new titles, at least until I graduate.  Their compiled booklist is impressive and well thought out.

While reading Chapter 7 in the Shelly Cashman Series, I was amazed how much time is dedicated to choosing the perfect piece of software for a classroom.  I don't know how teachers have the time!  In my opinion, the best way to evaluate software or any piece of technology is by using it yourself and trying it out.  A report or suggestion can't give you the actual experience.  The chapter also addresses website evaluation.  This skilled activity requires practice in order to choose appropriate sources.  This should be practiced in grade school and continue throughout college and graduate school.  We all need reminders!

1 comment:

Andromeda Jazmon said...

I think you are correct in thinking teachers don't have much time to look for, try out, and evaluate new software and hardware. In my school the teachers rely on the LMS staff to lead the way. A big part of my job is finding the best software and figuring out how to integrate it into their curriculum. As time goes on I imagine there will always be a frontier that will need explorers, and I am glad librarians are part of that!