Get To Know Your 21st Century Classroom – Part 8: Presentation Software

Now that we have discussed some of the hardware that is available in the 21^st Century Classroom, we should talk about the wide range of software options. Software can be powerful and robust or as minimally invasive and utilitarian as the instructor desires.

The Basics

Since the 21^st Century Classroom is designed around the ability to present information through a broad spectrum of interfaces, the software can get pretty complex. However, it doesn’t need to be. Simple functions like projecting a document, showing a movie, and browsing the internet can be handled through most computer operating systems. Furthermore, the interactive white board, in conjunction with the projector, act as a very large touch screen. So, navigating these types of programs with the pen should come naturally within a few minutes.

Interactive Lesson Plans

To develop and present effective lesson plans using the 21^st Century Classroom Equipment, the educator will need presentation software. Programs like Microsoft Paint or PowerPoint are useful but offer limited flexibility. Promethean’s ActivInspire is packaged with the ActivBoards (and is available separately) and allows the educator to create dynamic Flip Charts. Essentially, the teacher can draw/write directly onto the board (similar to Paint) and then flip to the next slide (similar to PowerPoint). This can be performed prior to the presentation or directly in front of the class.

Other functions available through software like ActivInspire are the ability to control Learner Response Systems and import media into the lesson plan. There are a myriad of other document creation tools at the instructor’s disposal.

Cutting-Edge Educational Software

Logical Choice Technologies is pioneering the use of augmented reality (AR) in the 21^st Century Classroom. The Letters alive™ pilot program represents a new way to engage students in reading and language arts. This is the first wave of new interactive software that will become available in May 2011.

Next week: We will wrap up this series.