So where are we now? 1:1 and Windows 8 - 3 weeks later

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!