There is a vast array of presentation tools available for teachers to utilize in the classroom. Thats right, it doesn't just have to be a boring old title and content slide on a PowerPoint. But don't get me wrong, PowerPoints can still be be designed and used to engage students in an enriching learning experience with their own creative control, with the additional of a few things...
If you aren't already using digital media in your classroom then you are most likely selling yourself and your students short. Do everyone a favour and start now! It's easy, i'll show you how...
Where does digital media fit in Education?
The word media is defined as a form of communication, including the use of newspaper, radio, television and magazines (Dictionary.com, 2022). In education, media can be used to support and enrich learning experiences with the use of songs, videos, and images. Studies have shown that ICT tools not only help teachers with their lesson planning and implementation, but it also assists in individualised learning experiences and enhances student engagement (Walan, 2020). For example, images can be added to a lessons PowerPoint to provide examples and talking points for the teacher, and at the same time, engage the student into the learning content with visual cues. Videos can also be used in PowerPoints or on sites such as YouTube to support learning. Videos created by professionals in any field can also be easily found online and be used in the classroom to explain complex topics to students. Visual and kinaesthetic learning is far more effective than auditory learning on its own (Cole, 2014).
How could you use Digital Media in your classroom?
Well what are you waiting for? Start thinking about all the ways you could start implementing digital media into your classroom. Here are some (of the many) helpful ways you can use digital media to improve your teaching and learning, depending on what you are doing...
Starting a new topic?
See-think-wonder: Show your students some images or a video of the topic and ask them to figure out the subject of the upcoming topic.
Taking notes?
Concept maps allow students to visually map their knowledge and understanding.
Organising ideas?
Use sticky note boards or online tools such as Padlet to visually organise ideas in class activities.
PowerPoint, it doesn't just have to be a tool for teachers to deliver content. Students can use PowerPoint to create, track, and display their own learning experience.
Reviewing content?
Maybe you are trying to secure and support a point you have made during a lesson. For example - the names of bones in the human body or the names of the Nobel gases from the period table. Try finding a video, image, or song that list each one - show this to the students as a tool to enrich the learning experience.
Alternatively, lets the students create their own image, song, or video!
Use
Doing an experiment or practical?
Instead of having students fill out a question sheet or record information in their books -- have them record their task with images, video, or audio and reflect.
Be careful!
Remember, the digital world should be approached with caution. Ensure that you and your students are using online resources safely and ethically. Take the time to teach yourself and students about the use of online sources. Ensure you are using creative-commons licensed resources to avoid copyright issues.
References:
Cole, D. (2014). A message from your brain: I'm not good at remembering what I hear. https://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/article/140312-auditory-memory-visual-learning-brain-research-science?fbclid=IwAR2p_kwlrLmTEGeBVka85mx_OohidWZ8rgfxsknNXoz9b3CTKl91njsdKMg
Walam, S. (2020). Embracing digital technology in science classrooms - secondary school teachers' enacted teaching and relfections on practice. J Sci Edu Technol, 29, 431-441. https:/doi.org/10.1007/s10956-020-09828-6
