Historic Map Resources from Richard Byrne

I was looking on Richard Byrne’s website to see what he thought of Prezi after our workshop presentation on Prezi.  Just interested to see what else might be out there.  Richard actually had a link to an online resource called Tools for 21st Century Teachers.  In it, Michael Zimmer lists several free online tools that teachers can use.  Prezi was included in that list, along with another type of online free presentation program called AHEAD.  The one feature of AHEAD that was different from Prezi that I liked was the ability to create layers like Adobe Photoshop.  That way you can work on one layer at a time, see what is on each layer, and move layers to the front or the back.

When I returned to the home page an Historic Map Resource caught my eye.  Richard Byrne noted that Google Earth has David Rumsey historical maps collection, but there is also Historic Maps Works which is an online collection of hundreds of historical maps.  I thought this would be a great resource for the social studies teachers in my cohort, along with those of us who provide historical literacy lessons.

Using the Ipad to Promote Communication

I just finished reading a post on Spotlight on Digital Media and Learning addressing the use of ipads with autistic children.  The post shares the 60 minutes story completed by Lesley Stahl on the use of the ipad to improve communication for students with autism.  Rhonda McEwen, an assistant professor of information at the University of Toronto is leading a study at Toronto’s Beverly School.  Her insight is also included in a 60 minutes interview.  She points out that they will not have any hard data to support the use of ipads promoting communication for several years.  The ipad is being used with kindergarten students in this school, and they will track their progress for the next several years to see if it makes a significant impact.

I have witnessed first-hand children in preschool who enter the preschool setting with limited vocabulary and a diagnosis of autism.  We have used vocabulary building activities on the computer to build vocabulary with these students, and have had success in that venture.  Our concerns were raised around the way the computer draws them in inclusively, so that they do not want to engage with other students or other activities.  Children with autism sometimes have difficulty engaging with their peers, so if we can find a technology like the ipad that helps them communicate, and engage with their peers at the same time, I think we really have something. 

I am also fascinated by the ongoing study at the University of Pittsburgh by Dr. Walter Schneider .  I am anxious to follow this study to see what insights in brain research are gained, and the implications for our understanding of helping children with autism communicate.