Here's to the crazy ones'

RIP Steve Jobs.

Echo-Echo-Echo

I came across a new tool the other day for the classroom.  This tool has actually been around for a while but I just got my hands on it to try.  The Echo Livescribe smart pen is that tool.  I was amazed of the possibilities this tool has.

One of the biggest perks with the Echo pen is the ability to record everything it hears and records what you write.  This is great for many different subjects.  The ability to upload your notes or lessons to the computer and then giving access to the students to view later is awesome.  If a student needs a little extra help and did not take the best notes they can review what had gone on in class from an earlier date.  Both seeing and hearing can benefit those types of learners in a great way.  

I think the Echo Livescribe is a good tool for the teacher and even the student.  Its a must look at tool especially if you are searching for another way to connect with your students.

Check out the web site: http://www.livescribe.com/en-us/

Below is a short work sheet I did with a 1st grader on sight words.

Tyler's
brought to you by Livescribe

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Summer is almost over.

Its been awhile since I last wrote a blog entry. Boy there has been a ton of cool stuff that has come out in the tech world. I have also continued to accumulate tools and resources to help with my research in technology and teaching. While being only an average blogger I’m sure this site has been over looked many times. And yes some of my entries could use some work. But for those who found value I thank you.

These are just a short summary of what I have found interesting and useful.

1. Google+

This is the latest for tech news and an invite is needed to check Google+ out. Needless to say I have not been able to get one, like many others, but Google+ has gotten great reviews so far and possibilities in the education world seem endless.

2. Lion

Apple really knows how to write software that changes the world. Their new os completely makes sense in all the right senses for everyone. Packed with some awesome features I can’t wait to get my hands on it.

3. iPad 2

This one is not new to anyone but this tool keeps on amazing me with the uses in the classroom. Still not a one all tool but it can cover about 80% of your needs. I think.

I’m looking forward to the up and coming year and hope my knowledge grows so I can pass it on.  I’m going to slowly try and get into the swing of things so this was to kick that off.  See everyone real soon.

Mind Mapping-Never Get Lost

Spiderscribe is one of the coolest mind mapping program I have found. You have the ability to input not just plain old text but some really neat and useful tools. You can input documents, location map, and even images. For those visual learners this is a great tool. You even have the ability collaborate with others. Oh and its FREE!

Check it out tell me what you think. http://www.spiderscribe.net/

Trying out Jotform

I came across this free form creating site and found it great to use. You can even upload files. Sweet! Try it out and let me know what you think.  www.jotform.com

Scrible New Tool

I came across another great tool for anyone, teacher or student.  Scrible is a new Bookmarklet tool with no downloading or installing anything.  Its even very versatile and virtually works with all browsers.  Why would you use such a tool? Below is a great example and I got it directly from Scrible’s site.  I couldn’t have explained it any better then they did.

research with scrible

• Highlight & Annotate Web Pages
• Tag, Filter & Easily Search Web Research
• Save, Share & Collaborate in the Cloud

scrible: collaborate on research with power & ease

• richly annotate web pages in multiple colors & styles
• save web research online & access it from anywhere
• use simple keywords to search full text of saved research
• use tags to quickly and easily organize research by topic
• easily share annotated web research with others via email
• new create project-specific digital research libraries
• new set permissions to selectively share libraries with others

The software has only been out since may 4th so don’t forget to try it out and give feedback.  I have only been playing with it for a day but two things I think are awesome. One is the legend feature where you can label different colors for different things. Second is the export feature (only available in IE so far).

 

 

 

 

 

 

Check our this video of the founder: