How can I actually use this thing?

Sometimes we hear about technology tools that sound awesome, but then we can't seem to actually incorporate them into lessons. I am going to share two tech gadgets/tools that not only are cool, but also the way you can actually use them in your classroom or library. These ideas might not be earth-shattering or new to you...but it's a start.

Flip Cameras (or any simple digital video camera)
I have been using these the last couple of years in the springtime to film book commercials with my fifth graders. Being filmed adds an extra layer of excitement and each year students seem to put together more quality commercials with great reviews and elaborate props.

USB Microphones & Smart Notebook Software
We have simple USB desktop microphones (specifically Logitech USB Desktop Microphones, but any will do) . SMART notebook software has a recording feature that will capture your computer screen and voices. With the two of these tools together, you have a lot of possibilities. I consider it to be similar to pod casting. This year in collaboration with the art teacher, I had third graders pair up to study an endangered animal and find out why they were endangered. In the art room they studied images of their animal and used water colors to paint their animals. We used their pictures and put them into SMART notebook software. Then students worked together to write short scripts about their endangered animals. I then recorded their voices with their own original artwork in the background.