Technological Applications for the Classroom discusses several digital tools that can be used in education, including Microsoft Office, Prezi, Glogster, Xtranormal, Class Wikis, online learning programs, Animoto, and SMARTboards. These applications allow for word processing, presentations, online "posters", animated movies, collaborative wikis, online curriculum, multimedia slideshows, and interactive whiteboards. Many are free or have free basic accounts and can engage students through multimedia, collaboration, and interactive learning experiences.

1. Technological Applications for the Classroom

2. Microsoft Office Offers several applications to make word processing, spreadsheets, e-mail, organization, and presentations easier Microsoft Word Publisher PowerPoint Excel One Note Outlook

3. Prezi As an alternative to traditional slide shows, Prezi allows information to be presented in an animated, non-linear way. Text, images, and video rotate around a central thought – all planned and navigated by the user. Free accounts available at www.prezi.com

4. Glogster This isn’t your typical poster. Glogster allows students to create online “posters.” Students customize their background and graphics and then add text, images, and videos. Specialized version for the classroom can be found at www.edu.glogster.com

5. Xtranormal Create your own animated movie , or “xtranormal.” Students choose the characters and backgrounds of their choice. Then, students write the scripts and program the actions. Two pilgrims could discuss the journey on the Mayflower, or two book readers could discuss the latest novel. The possibilities are limitless. Free accounts are available at www.xtranormal.com

6. Class Wikis Wikis allow a whole classroom, whole school, or whole community to come together and discuss. Teachers can set up a class wiki and serve as the moderator – with control over users and content. Wikis are available through a variety of websites, such as www.pbworks.com

7. Online Learning Programs Online learning programs offer pre-loaded, pre-selected curriculum --- including tutorials, applications, and tests --- all online. Several companies offer pre-designed systems for purchase, like PLATO. Other websites allow teachers to upload curriculum and set users, like www.15desks.com

8. Animoto Animoto offers another alternative to traditional slide shows. Students use images, text, music, and videos to create a presentation similar to a movie trailer Free accounts (and accounts with more access for purchase) are available at www.animoto.com

9. SMARTboard SMART technology offers an alternative to the dry erase board or chalk board Work space is interactive and lends itself to student-centered learning. Pre-made lessons for varied content and grade levels are available at www.exchange.smarttech.com

10. Read the research… There are lots of books available for teachers to learn more about technology integration and its benefits. Some popular titles include…