Journal 10: “Making History”

Shein, Esther (10/15/2008). Making History. T.H.E. Journal, Retrieved 1/6/2009, from http://www.thejournal.com/articles/23394

In Esther Shein’s article “Making History,” the author discusses the use of podcasts in a ninth grade U.S. History course in Pennsylvania. The podcasts were to be “old” breaking news stories from World War II. The students were given a list of major events to choose from, and were instructed to create news broadcasts as if those events were happening live. Research for the news stories was done in class using the internet, school library, and numerous textbooks. This innovative use of technology in the classroom gave students a break from the monotony of lectures and textbooks, and gave them something tangible to review for the final exam. Shein also discusses the story of a second teacher in Colorado who sought out and utilized a computer software game simulation which allowed “introduction to business” students create and run their own multi-million dollar company. In this simulation, students learned best from their mistakes when analyzing how to fix the loss of profit or other problems that may have developed along the way. This teacher used additional technology when requesting the students create a power point presentation as a wrap up of the simulation. A third teacher used a software program offered by school supply company Mead called Mead Maps in order to have the students create a product. In all three instances, technology was used to help students better understand information, work as a group, and use critical thinking and analytical skills.

Question 1: How can a teacher with a limited budget utilize these programs in similar ways?
Teachers should look into grants for using technology in the classroom. Many technology companies are willing to donate supplies, materials and money in order for students to be introduced to technology. Additionally, some software companies may give discounts to under-funded schools.

Question 2: Can similar projects be used in classrooms other than business, history and marketing?
Similar projects, such as creating podcasts, could be utilized in many class settings, including English were students could create podcasts about literature. The programs used in the business and marketing classes may be geared more towards those content areas, but there are many software programs out there, surely something for each subject.