Journal #1

Power of the Mashup: Combining Essential Learning with New Technology Tools.
Suzie Boss and Jane Krauss

This article tells of how a teacher in Northern California has used technology to translate literature dating back over 200 years, and utilizing tools that enable his students to live through a literary character's world. This virtual "road trip" as Jerome Burg describes, uses several google tools including satellite imagery, maps, and other three dimensional images to enhance the experience for his students. Instead of just reading about events, the students can now live them.

1. How can the use of technology assist in lesson planning?

Using technology allows teachers to portray different aspects of their curriculum by allowing the students to actively participate in the lesson. With the advent of new technology, lessons once written on a blackboard can now be brought to life in more audience captivating methods. Audio and visual learning has taken on a whole new meaning as technological tools fill the needs for both types of students.

2. Can this type of technology be used for multiple subjects or just literary lessons?

I believe that new technology can be used for any subject. In History, for example, students may be able to travel back into time and relive some of the more prolific events of the past century. This form of education is priceless as it really brings to life what it must have felt like to be one of the first immigrants to come to the new land. In physical education, treadmills and stationary bikes can be used to place a person in a virtual race, or simply cruising along some scenic trails. The possibilities are endless.