Software

I use a lot of different software applications in my teaching. I teach a Digital Tools class where students learn the proper way to type and document formatting skills. The software that I use for this class includes MicroType4, MicroPace, Microsoft Word, and PowerPoint. In my Computer Applications class I use Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint. I also teach a class called Desktop Publishing. The software that I use in that class includes PowerPoint, Publisher, Word, and Adobe Photoshop. The other class that I am currently teaching is a Careers class and I use Word, Excel, and PowerPoint in that class. I teach students how to use these applications and I use them myself to create handouts, present lessons, and make tests and assignments.

Throughout this week I have learned more about Google Docs and Prezis. I would like to learn more about these options and how to incorporate them into my classroom. I am very comfortable with the Microsoft applications and I am a little unsure about how Google Docs and Prezis could be more beneficial than the Microsoft applications. I would also like to learn more about Access, after this week and my software tool activity I have learned more about it already.

What I have learned this week is that I need more time! I would love to learn more about all of the applications, but it takes time to research and play around with these programs. I have always been the type that goes through the steps of a project before I have my student complete it. Learning this new software will require time from me. My goal will be to set aside time throughout the week to look into more of these programs. I will use the time I am allotted at school during my prep to do more research. I am going to start with setting aside 30 minutes a week to research and try new software. Once I have more information and programs that I am interested in using I will talk with my department head and my technology coordinator to discuss what needs to happen to actually begin using these software applications in my classroom.