ETIPS

Technology use provides added value to teaching and learning. Educational technology does not possess inherent value but rather it offers immense potential when intentionally coupled with grounded planning and solid teaching. Technology should not be used as filler for lesson plans or as down time for the teacher but rather to enhance student learning on a particular topic. This resource area explores specific options for adding value to classroom through technology but is by no means an exhaustive list.

Tools for Early Childhood

General Tools

• Internet
• Online reference tools
• WebQuests
• Spreadsheets
• Databases
• Word processing
• Desktop publishing software
• Web authoring tools
• Email
• Telecommunication technologies
• Bulletin board, chat room, discussion forum, ex. Tappedin.org
• Discussion software, ex. Instant Messenger
• Database, ex. ERIC
• Computer simulation
• Video clips
• CD-ROMs
• Online magazines and newsletters
• School-based or teacher's website for posting grades and comments, assignments, attendance, summaries of lesson plans, ex. ThinkWave.com
   

Inspiration

URL: %a{:href => "http://www.inspiration.com/"} http://www.inspiration.com

Description: Inspiration is a powerful visual learning tool that inspires students, grades 4-12, to develop ideas and organize thinking. Use Inspiration to assist you and your students in outlining, diagramming, concept mapping and webbing. Set up live hyperlinks to create direct connections to the immense resources of the Internet.

Kidspiration

URL: http://www.inspiration.com

Description: Kidspiration helps K-3 students see, organize and develop their great ideas. Students can brainstorm ideas with pictures and words; organize and categorize information visually; create stories and descriptions using engaging visual tools; and explore new ideas with webs and visual mapping.

HyperStudio

URL: http://www.hyperstudio.com

Description: For over 10 years, HyperStudio has been the de facto standard classroom multimedia-authoring program. The newest version, HyperStudio 4, represents the next level in desktop and online multimedia communications for educators and students. Use this versatile application with high school students to develop electronic portfolios.

PowerPoint

URL: http://www.microsoft.com/office/powerpoint/default.asp

Description: With its easy-to-use tools for creating presentations, Microsoft’s PowerPoint is an engaging form of communication in the classroom. Instructors and students use PowerPoint to add images of art, video clips of artists, and art techniques for instructional or creative purposes.