Multimedia

 Technology Tools
  
 1. TeacherTube
 2. SlideShare
 3. Voki


  

Instructional Strategies 

1. TeacherTube 
Instructional Strategy: Scaffolding
Grade: 1-5th

If a teacher is getting ready to start a new unit within their classroom they can access numerous videos according to the topic on this website. In connection with the videos the teacher can scaffold during that time period. This is a wonderful way to check for understanding while students read a chunk of difficult text or learn a new concept or content. Here's how this strategy works: a new idea from discussion or the reading is shared, then pause (providing think time), then ask a strategic question, pausing again. By strategic, you need to design them ahead of time, make sure they are specific, guiding and open-ended questions.

2. SlideShare 
Instructional Strategy: Modeling and Projects
Grade: 4-5th

 From the information in the slides a teacher can use those as onsite examples causing students to think critically. SlideShare also has presentations with very valuable information in which students can access at home to help with project tropics. SlideShare can also be used for projects in which students would present with all required information included.

  
 3. Voki
Instructional Strategy: Lectures and Discussions
Grade: 4-5th

If a teacher will be absent they can use this tool to record themselves to relay information to their students. This will ensure they get what is needed and know the expectations left were coming directly from them . The lectures will promote understanding via explanations and lead to discussions. In which the discussions can help the students elaborate on one another idea and establish an overall understanding. 

Multimedia Challenges 

Challenges that should be considered when using these tools is the over use of technology and time required in the lab. As a teacher you must not become dependent on technology to help teach lessons because if the power goes out you must rely on pen and paper. Hopes are high that you have made copies of all your needed resources. A challenge with TeacherTube is the information that may be in specific videos is not accurate. It is important to view the videos first because incorrect information could hinder a student’s academic growth. One challenge with SlideShare is students just copying all their information from slides and not actually researching for more information regarding their topic. Lastly, one challenge with Voki is the information not getting clearly transmitted to the students. Also having too long of a lecture can bore the students and the discussions can become chaotic!