This week I have been using web based document and presentation editing tools that I found very useful. There are several available. Google Docs is very user freindly....it requires that you signup for a Gmail account. You then will have access to a list of web based document, data base, spreadsheet, presentation and Blog design/editing tools. ZOHO is also a similar tool for accomplishing these tasks.

These are both great options if you or your students don't have access to MS Office when working on assignments. One feature that I particularly like and used right way, was the Calendar tool in Google Docs. I was able to sync it with my desktop calendar in MS Office. This allows me to be able to view my calendar from my iPod Touch.

Photography Videos

Here is a great site for studio photography videos by Jim Talkington. He has a great way of presenting affordable solutions for amateur photographers. He has 27 videos that are an excellent resource for the classroom.



http://www.prophotolife.com

I recently had a conversation with my son, Jordon, about molecular quantum computing. This sparked some interest I had in the subject and lead me to Neil Gershenfeld's research at MIT. If you have a few minutes to spare watch his 17 minute presentation about his Fab Labs.
Fab Lab demos Molecular machine projects This lead to the second presentation on Human Centered Design by David Kelley.

iPod Touch in Teaching

I recently acquired an iPod Touch (second generation). I was intrested in this model as it would allow me to connect directly to wireless internet for browsing, email, digital still/video images and music. I immediately wanted to look into the uses it would have in delivering lessons. It took some time to find out how it could be connected to my data projector and how to store videos from YouTube but I think I have it sorted out.

First, you will need to purchase the iPod cord for Apple other 3rd party cables will not work. It was 75$ at London Drugs. I purchased the composite cable with the USB connection that can be used to charge your iPod as it is being used. This cable will allow you to connect to a tv or data projector.


Secondly, you will need to download Tooble.
Tooble will allow you to download video from YouTube and convert it for use on your iPod Touch. You still have to connect your iPod to your Mac iTunes to transfer the video files. You will not have to wait for your videos to buffer when playing them during your lesson delivery.
Make sure to install Perian 1.1.2 it will appear when you go to the Tooble site. Perian needs to be installed before you download a video, for it to play on your iPod Touch.


I will be using this in my Topics in Technology Education class this semester to view current information from the MacWorld conference.