Today I used the Web 2.0 tool Picasa to create my first slideshow of any kind. It was exciting to find out how to do this. The process was far more straightforward than I had anticipated. I just uploaded the photos I needed from my computer's hard-drive and clicked on the slideshow icon. Then I watched as my slideshow came to life before me.
How could Picasa be used in an elementary classroom? I think this program is powerful for students to use as a means of expressing themselves. Images are incredible instruments for self-expression and this program could allow students to form a collection of photos that reflect their lives in some way. Students can be involved with the photography involved or they can learn strategies for searching for desired photos to include in the slideshow. Included in this type of strategy would be instruction for planning the project, identifying what photos are appropriate for the project, employing a wide range of Web 2.0 tools for finding resources that offer desired photos, checking the credibility of those resources, using appropriate copyright and citation skills, and communicating an idea with the photos.
Tara,
ReplyDeleteI couldn't agree more! Picasa is a great tool for students to share their creativity. Students have an outlet to express themselves and have meaning behind it. This was such an easy tool to use. This is something that students can use at school as well as at home when they want to portray something or just share memories! Incorporating this into the classroom will only boost the egos of the students.