Friday, November 4, 2011

Designing with Technologies

The technology that is available to the classroom today is incredible! It can be used to enhance what the teacher is presenting to the class, or supplement a subject area, such as Fine Arts. Due to budget cuts, many school districts are reducing their Fine Arts programs.  Research has suggested that Fine Arts expand the boundaries of learning and encourage creative thinking and a deeper understanding of the core subjects, Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies. Technology can be used in the classroom to help supplement the Fine Arts areas.
In the Designing with Technology activity, I explored 2 websites that could be used to encourage student’s creativity. At the website http://universe.lego.com/enUS/creationlab/Default.aspx,   students have the ability to design and create their own Lego City and interact online with other students.  This website is great in that students are able to use their creativity while using math and science skills.  At http://creatingmusic.com, students can learn about the different types of musical instruments and create their own musical compositions. While composing music does allow students to be creative, it also strengthens their math skills.
Both of the Lego and Creating Music websites would be a great way to incorporate fine arts and reinforce math and science skills in the classroom and at home.  

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