Reading, Writing & Presenting
My experience... when I first started my Master's degree I didn't own the software Microsoft Office. I thought I could get by with what was already on my computer. I had a few frustrating experiences, including an assignment that was returned to me with some marks deducted because of improper formatting. But, I had done it properly in the original, it just didn't get transferred correctly to the other file type. I decided to purchase the software that the institution recommended and this made things a lot easier for me. When choosing technology and programs, you may want to consider what your primary institution recommends in order to make file transferring seamless and easy. |
AnnotationAnnotation refers to adding comments, notes, or otherwise marking up a document. You can annotate and highlight digital documents. Sometimes you annotate directly in the program you used to access the document, such as in many digital textbook apps. Other times, you need to import the document into another app in order to annotate it.
Tools OneNote Diigo |
Note-TakingWe need to take notes for a variety of reasons and sometimes the reason changes how and where we do this. One advantage of digital note-taking is the ability to search your notes. There are also programs that will change your digital handwriting into text. For the most part, I prefer to make notes with a pencil and paper, though I find digital lists to be very convenient to add and delete items to.
Tools OneNote Evernote |
Document CreationOften, we create a lot of documents as part of our learning journeys and often these are shared with others, whether they be teachers, fellow students, or coworkers. Use programs that create documents in formats that will be easily accessible to others.
Tools Microsoft Office Suite iWork Suite Prezi |
Brainstorming & Mind MapsThere are some great digital tools for brainstorming out there. I find them especially useful if I am doing this with another person or a group, or if I am going to have to share the brainstorms. These tools make great mind maps which can also be helpful for synthesizing information for teaching and learning.
Tools Sketchboard MindMeister Coggle |
Text Readers & Speech Recognition SoftwareText Readers
There is a myriad of reasons why people use text readers. They can support individuals who have a disability that affects their reading capabilities or those people that don't want to read all the time. Some people prefer to follow along as they listen to improve comprehension or retention. Tools NaturalReader Speech Recognition Software Like text readers, speech recognition software is used by people with disabilities but also simply as a matter of preference. Speech recognition software transcribes what you say into text and can also be used to give commands to your devices. Some people prefer to let their ideas flow verbally in the initial phases of writing and then edit their work using a keyboard. Tools Dragon Naturally Speaking |
Audio & Video PresentationsThere are lots of free tools available for amateur audio and video recording and editing. I am always amazed at how long it takes me to make a recording that I am satisfied with, so make sure you leave lots of time to create this type of presentation.
It is relatively easy to record a video of what is happening on your computer, tablet, or smart phone screen and this is called screen capturing. Screen Capturing Tools QuickTime Player Jing Audio Recording & Editing Tools Audacity iMovie Video Recoding & Editing Tools iMovie Windows 10 "Camera" App Animation Creation Tools Powtoon GoAnimate Voki |
E-portfolios are used to document your learning over a period of time and reflect upon it. They can include many different types of files that provide evidence for what you've learned and how you are able to apply that knowledge. E-portfolios are metacognitive in nature, since you reflect upon why you chose each piece of evidence.
Tools Weebly Wix WordPress |