Embedded Task 5 - Reflection on Simulations, Interactives (or Technology of your choice)

Hi all,

In this weeks Digital Pedagogies in Secondary Schools class we discussed and look at different types of digital tools such as Simulations and interactives like Google Maps. For this weeks reflection I have chosen to focus my attention on the program Prezi.

Prezi is a cloud-based presentation software and storytelling tool for presenting ideas on a virtual canvas. The product employs a zooming user interface (ZUI), which allows users to zoom in and out of their presentation media, and allows users to display and navigate through information. It can be used by teachers and students to collaborate on presentations with multiple users having access and the ability to edit the same presentation, and to allow students to construct and present their knowledge in different learning styles.

Here is an example of a Prezi presentation based on waves.


This technology is relatively easy to use however there is a learn and support tab if help is needed. Prezi is available as a free program, however if you want extra features that are not available in the free version, there is a sub scriptable version.

This particular program I believe is an essential tool for pre service teachers to use. Students could use this program to create presentations or using for brainstorming. Teachers could use this technology to provide digital resources across multiple learning settings and to assess student work.

The SAMR model can be used to further evaluate Prezi. Some examples of this are included below.

Level of SAMR	Student	Teacher
Substitution Level	This program will engage the students more than completing the same things in their books.	Easy way to create a number of digital resources.
Augmentation Level	This allows students to express their own ideas.	Allows the teacher to give the students feedback on their work individually.
Modification Level	Allows more time for the needs of all those involved which leads to higher focus on the learners and adds the option to continually modify the activities.
Redefinition Level	Allows students and teachers to develop their own digital components. This will help the students when they are completing their assessment items.

This week I have found yet another useful program that gives me as a pre service teacher an enormous amount of different ways to utilise it and apply it across a range of learning environments.

Here is a link to the Prezi website so that you can start creating your own presentations!
https://prezi.com

James Smith.