Are virtual tours the same as streaming video? If so, I will have difficulty downloading and using the programs. Our Acceptable Use Policy strictly forbids streaming video during class hours. I would run the risk of having my computers pulled from my room, including the teacher computer.
Concept mapping online would be a great addition to the virtual tools but the sites I've looked at require accounts to be set up. Again, this is in violation of the AUP. I have talked to tech services and they are going to investigate several concept mapping sites for me this summer and find one that they will allow through the filters for the students to set up accounts in... Maybe.
Do any other teachers have these problems trying to bring new uses for technology into their districts?
Saturday, May 23, 2009
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3 comments:
Video streaming is not necessarily the same as a virtual field trip because while watching streamed clips, students do not interact as much with the setting as they do in a virtual field trip. What could be done to enhance the virtual field trips is to include streamed clips and then take some time to discuss each clip.
As far as the AUP that you are struggling with. It sounds to me as if your school is quite hesitant towards using new applications or technologies as they are created. My school does not have as strict of a policy as yours, but we also have a tech department that is very liberal in how they evaluate the new technology. I can check with my IT department and see if I can find some ways teachers are using some of the things you mentioned as being "unacceptable" to show your school how positive they can be.
Your Acceptable Use Policy sounds much worse than ours. Even if a site is blocked, I can request that if be unblocked simply by sending an email. I have yet to be denied. Of course, I only request sites that directly relate to our standards. It's a shame that your school or district is so hesitant to embrace the present and future of educational technology.
Travis and Susanna, I would appreciate any examples that you could provide! So far, I haven't pushed and IT has taken great care of me. But, my students are falling behind because of it...
Thank you!
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