Project Three: Collaborative Mindmapping

Mindmeister is a really cool program. I learned that it is a digital way to create a bubble chart. It also creates connections between ideas and allows the maker to create links to websites for additional information. Links can also be created to pictures and videos as well.

As a teacher, I would use this piece of technology to introduce topics at the start of a unit. I would request that my students use the maps to prepare for class and to gain a basic understanding of the upcoming unit. As seen with the map I created, this would give students a basic idea of who and what was involved in World War II. In addition, extra links would provide students with information they may not be acquainted with already on some level.

I would use this technology for certain topics, but I feel like overuse could lead to boredom among the students. It would be beneficial to students because it would allow them to gain a basic understanding of different topics which would lead to greater overall learning.

Project Three: YouTube Downloads

This video was downloaded from YouTube using the "Easy YouTube Downloader" add-on by Mozilla Firefox. The method was simple and easy to use.

There are copyright laws that are associated with embedding and downloading YouTube videos. Like all other materials, it is necessary to first obtain permission from the producer of the video before embedding or even downloading the video. It is then necessary to give credit to the creator of the film. (In this case, the video was created by me so no copyrights laws are violated.)

The best videos to use in a classroom setting are those that students can relate with. For example, when teaching about wars or other hardships, it would be good to include a video of war footage or war photography. Doing so would allow students to put themselves in the shoes of the soldiers. It also puts a face to those in history. It brings history to life.

John Smith and Colonial America

Pocahontas: students from around the United States have grown to love Disney's version of John Smith and Pocahontas in early colonial Jamestown, but is it the truth? The following resource will take you to the truth behind John Smith, behind Pocahontas. You will find yourself amazed at the similarities and differences between Disney's model of John Smith and the truth behind the tale.

John Smith and Jamestown

All About Me

Of all the subjects in the educational system, there are none more exciting, more applicable to life than the subject of history. My entire life has revolved around the history of the United States, of the World. As I went through school the one class period I anticipated (more than lunch) was always one dealing with history. Whether it was geography, world civilization, or European history, I was always ready and excited to learn about what had happened before I came to this Earth, before my own life began. I hope to share that similar excitement with my students, to show them how interesting history can be, to show them how it can apply to their own lives. I am excited to be the teacher for this course and to share my love of history with each student who walks through my door.