Knowledge Is the Key

Here’s a creative entry in the Interactive Classroom Makeover Contest.

“Viva La Vida” is a parody of the Coldplay music video by the same name. “Live the Life” fits this video well as it talks about ways to live the life with technology. Created by Miss Janelle Keune’s 7th and 8th graders, around 100 students were involved in some aspect of it’s creation from writing, filming, choreographing, mixing the audio, editing, and acting. We were very excited to be able to use back-up music from our own 7th and 8th grade orchestra, directed by Mrs. Jennifer Larson. This video embodies the ways in which technology can impact learning, through improved test scores, better comprehension, a more engaging classroom, and an overall excitement for school. We hope you enjoy “Viva La Vida”. (Source)

Cast Your Votes for the Interactive Classroom Makeover

After receiving more than 200 entries the finalists in the 2009 Interactive Classroom Makeover Contest have been announced. One classroom from each of the three categories will receive a digital makeover worth over $30,000.

Learn more about the contest and rules and cast your votes by Noon EST on December 4, 2009.

Suggested Reading for 07/28/2009

Animoto: Quick and Slick – Tom Barrett

How to Become a Twitter Teacher – Kapil Bhatia

Why Spend So Much Time on This Stuff? – Liz B. Davis

Powerful Images to Give Lessons Punch – Danny Nicholson

Interactive Whiteboards in the Classroom

My buddy, Tom Barrett, developed the below presentation. It is full of strategies and tips for effectively integrating interactive whiteboards (IWBs) with teaching and learning.