Blackboard or Die

      Many students, as well as teachers, curse at the name of Blackboard around Florida State's campus. It is true, there are many times where Blackboard will shut down due to overuse during times like drop-add week and sometimes even finals, when almost every student is attempting to access the site at once, in frantic need of passing their exams. I for one, actually find Blackboard useful. Though it can glitch, it works as a great communication tool among students, teachers, and parents. Teachers can post all assignments on Blackboard as well as send mass e-mails. Students are also able to send mass e-mails to students in the same class as them through the Student Tools page. Looking for notes that you missed one day and don't know anyone else in your class? This is the perfect tool to communicate effectively and efficiently with other students. Parents can also be involved on Blackboard if they control things like the accounts of students' FSU Cards. SunTrust Bank accounts can be used through FSU Cards, therefore parents can use Blackboard as an access to their child's funds.
     Using Blackboard throughout my four years at Florida State would allow me to be able to implement a domain area such as this one into a classroom. Depending on the grade level of my students, I would choose an age appropriate domain which would serve as a home access to everything going on in the class. I would model it after what I have seen on Blackboard, but gear it towards a younger age and make sure the glitches were minimal.
     Just this past year, I created my first Prezi. I really enjoyed using this program compared to Microsoft PowerPoint. It allowed for more creativity in design and animation throughout my project. I think this particular program is definitely a better choice for teachers, of elementary age especially, when giving presentations or lectures. It is more involved, which will capture the attention of younger students for longer periods of time. Constantly updating yourself on communication and learning technology will help you become a more effective teacher.