In just 3 weeks - we have accomplished so much! The kids have adapted to having a computer as an additional learning tool with minimal hurdles.
Our 1:1 classroom is fully functional. We are using our computers on a daily basis, routines are being established and online learning is happening. We asked each student to provide their own headphones/ear-buds, and a flash drive for moving documents to our school network. We have already seen a decrease in the amount of "paper products" that are being produced.
I spent a few minutes and created a list of what we have done so far - regarding web based programs, productivity tools and Windows 8 Applications....
In just 3 weeks the kids have used, and are very familiar with the following:
Web Based
Programs:
Kidblog - communication and journaling
XtraMath - daily math fact practice in a "fun" way
TenMarks - review of math concepts with problem solving and application
BrainPop - Story Elements and audio/visual explanations of reading concepts
Our Virginia Online Textbook - communication of Virginia History concepts
SolPass - review of Virginia Studies SOL's in a fun and interactive way
MathDictionary for Kids - introduction and review of math vocabulary in an interactive way
Productivity
Tools:
Excel - creating graphs and spreadsheets relating Solar System planets size and distance from sun
Word - keyboarding skills and composing
Powerpoint - creating presentations about books read, including basic story elements
PhotoStory3 - taking powerpoint shows and saving them as JPGs - then creating a visual movie with sound and transitions
ActivInspire - creating slide shows using the interactive tools to depict the Va SOL Native American information
Copy/paste between programs
Embed HTML code
Saving images as JPGs
keyboarding skills
Windows 8 Tasks:
Switch between desktop and start screen
Navigating around the start screen and finding various apps that apply to what they need to do
Pin/unpin programs to start screen
Camera
How to Connect to WiFi and troubleshoot if there is a problem with the connection
And here they are in action:
Collaborating, Creating and Communicating!
