Journal 7

Journal #7
Making Field Trips Podtastic
By Aliece M. Weller

This article enlightened readers with the interactive technology that is going on at the Boston Museum of Science. The museum gives a guided toward by using wireless and handheld devices for students on a field trip. The museum combines a mix of technology with podcasts, multimedia creation, web research, and interviewing. The whole museum is connected to the internet through a Wi-fi connection. The podcasts are very interactive and are more than just watching television. Students answer questions, play games, read, and are guided along by an animated monkey. The podcasts are on handheld computers and an mp3 player is not needed Students are allowed to take pictures, record audio, and record notes on their computer. They can also access additional information through the internet. The learning module at the museum can also be customized by the teacher. The educator can ask quiz questions, assignments, or readings to their production. It allows students to explore the museum visually, auditory, and physically. Thus, it taps into all the learning senses which allows all types of kids with different learning styles to be successful. Students learn and are also having fun. The museum also passes the NETS (technology requirements) for students. The set up at the museum did not use fancy or expensive equipment. Only headphones, microphones, digital video cameras, iTunes, Garage Band, and HTML internet were used. The quizzes were written on Java Script. All of these are basic technology programs that any individual can use. Today, and in the future, learning is becoming more technology and interactive oriented. The museum does a great job in adjusting to the new generation.

Questions:
1. Is the museum a fun learning environment for kids of all ages?

Yes. The article showed pictures of elementary school children really enjoying the museum. But, the podcasts are a fun way to learn for somebody at any age. Furthermore, teachers can customize the questions they want to ask their students.

2. Is the museum and equipment expensive?

First of all, it is apparent that not all schools will have the resources to be able to fund a trip like this. I believe the the handheld computers and equipment is expensive. It is unfortunate that there are probably going to be some schools that cannot afford the trip. Also, not every school has access to computers and so much equipment.