I’ve joined Miss Snowden’s Technology Tools linky party! I LOVE technology! After my first year teaching I actually “taught” (I say “taught” because it wasn’t actually a certified teaching position) in the computer lab for two years before returning to the classroom. I LOVED it! I’m actually getting an instructional technology endorsement with my Master’s degree.
I am very lucky to teach in the school I do. My principal supports all of our technology endeavors. I have a mounted SmartBoard and projector which I use all day every day. I’ve also got a document camera, Flip video camera, digital camera, four classroom computers, and….. my newest technology item just came in clast week….a classroom amplification system!
I have an extremly talkative class this year. I sometimes use a microphone with a karaoke machine to talk to my kiddos and it holds their attention much better because they can all hear more clearly. When the time came to spend our school’s technology money this year, I asked for an amplification system. The two speakers will be mounted on two sides of the room. I will wear the little pendant around my neck so they can hear me loud and clear at all times. I’m so excited! It’s supposed to be mounted this week since we’re off for spring break.
My favorite piece of technology equipement has to be the SmartBoard though, hands down! It makes lessons so much more engaging! I can show educational videos, play interactive games, use it as a station during both literacy and math work station times, and so much more! The kids LOVE it!
If you don’t have a SmartBoard, go write a grant and get one! Once you have one you’ll never teach the same way again! I used to have mine on wheels but it took up so much more room in my classroom. Mounting it is definitely the way to go if you can get it mounted. I have mine on adjustable mount so it can be raised or lowerd if needed.
Even though I am very fortunate to have the technology tools I have, I do have a wish list! Some day I’d like to have a few iPods and/or iPads for students to use in the classroom. There are so many educational apps out there I’d love for the students to be able to use. I’d also love to have an iPod listening station. It would make managing my books on cd/tape so much easier!
Go join the linky party if you haven’t already!
Thanks for linking up! We don’t have Smartboards, but we do have mimios. They are super nice. It is just a strip that suctions to the whiteboard and makes it interactive. Your blog look GREAT btw!
Have a great spring break!
Jena
1st Grade with Miss Snowden
Glad to have found another “SMART” teacher!!
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