Gale Cengage Learning company provides numerous online resources. There is a wonderful 17 Volume Grzimek's Animal Life Encyclopedia that is an interactive comprehensive animal reference. It is media rich with photos, videos, and real time news which is updated regularly. Take a look and preview a video: http://www.gale.com/wildthings.
Gale has teamed up with the Florida Electronic Library to provide online resources that meet the research needs of the state. If you get the chance surf by and see all that is available to you.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Inspiration 9
I just met with Mona Westhaver, President and Co-Founder of Inspiration Software,Inc. Their product line includes Inspiration, Kidspiration, and InspireData. Inspiration 9 was released January 5, 2010 and FETC 2010 is a perfect venue to show the added features.
Inspiration is clearly a leader in visual thinking and learning. With Inspiration 9 there has been a reorganization of symbols and visual tools that will aid students in making curriculum connections. There is increased capability for organizing, outlining, and writing. The NEW Presentation Manager and Mind Map view are additions to an already superb product.
Students will be able to transfer their work from diagram, outline, and/or mind map views into presentations. With a few clicks, drags and drops, students will be able to move their brainstorming to the presentation level, thereby achieving and demonstrating their knowledge within one program. Inspiration presenter applet is available as a free download in order to view the presentations even if Inspiration is not installed on that particular machine.
Students are able to export their document or presentation directly to the PDF format, making it very easy to share their work with others.
Inspiration is clearly a leader in visual thinking and learning. With Inspiration 9 there has been a reorganization of symbols and visual tools that will aid students in making curriculum connections. There is increased capability for organizing, outlining, and writing. The NEW Presentation Manager and Mind Map view are additions to an already superb product.
Students will be able to transfer their work from diagram, outline, and/or mind map views into presentations. With a few clicks, drags and drops, students will be able to move their brainstorming to the presentation level, thereby achieving and demonstrating their knowledge within one program. Inspiration presenter applet is available as a free download in order to view the presentations even if Inspiration is not installed on that particular machine.
Students are able to export their document or presentation directly to the PDF format, making it very easy to share their work with others.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
FETC Keynote Speaker
Ed Begley Jr. is indeed an accomplished actor, but he is also a dynamic individual and a person who truly lives and practices what he believes in. He started taking a great interest in the environment back in 1970. He is often seen on his bicycle, he purchases recycled paper, has a rain barrel, recycles and composts and practices what he 'preaches'. He is so entertaining to listen to, that one becomes absorbed in the message and comes away with a feeling that 'I can do that'.
Today, before leaving home, I stopped to drop off the newspapers and boxes at a school with the large GREEN dumpster. People do not realize how convenient it is. In Pasco County, only a small percentage of homes have 'blue bag' recycling. But we do our part and I am proud of the effort. Even more so after listening to Ed Begley, Jr.
Mr. Begley said that "Everybody can do something". It's okay to start small. Do what you can and after that try to do more.
As to technology, "it can be a friend". Use it wisely. It's okay to have a fondness for the printed page.
With regard to the climate change discussion, stick to good science. Go to reputable scientific sites for information. Be aware of your source.
Today, before leaving home, I stopped to drop off the newspapers and boxes at a school with the large GREEN dumpster. People do not realize how convenient it is. In Pasco County, only a small percentage of homes have 'blue bag' recycling. But we do our part and I am proud of the effort. Even more so after listening to Ed Begley, Jr.
Mr. Begley said that "Everybody can do something". It's okay to start small. Do what you can and after that try to do more.
As to technology, "it can be a friend". Use it wisely. It's okay to have a fondness for the printed page.
With regard to the climate change discussion, stick to good science. Go to reputable scientific sites for information. Be aware of your source.
Ready, Set, Go!
It's time for FETC 2010, 30 year anniversary, and all is set and ready for thousands of participants to filter through the Orange County Convention Center. We're at the West Concourse this year, with parking in the rear of the building.
Ready- Left home with the added travel concern of sinkholes. Armed with my map of the exhibit hall, email verifications of appointments, interviews, receptions, and my own eagerness.
Set- After parking and a hike to Level 1 Sections A and B, I checked in and located the FETC Press Room. Such a nice welcome from really fine folks. We have wireless connection, work areas, and refreshments available to us throughout FETC.
Go- I will be attending the opening session which is 3:30-5:00 PM. From there I'll head to the Exhibit Hall's Grand Opening. There are several companies I will be looking for this evening: Discovery Education, SMART, and Epson to name a few.
Ready- Left home with the added travel concern of sinkholes. Armed with my map of the exhibit hall, email verifications of appointments, interviews, receptions, and my own eagerness.
Set- After parking and a hike to Level 1 Sections A and B, I checked in and located the FETC Press Room. Such a nice welcome from really fine folks. We have wireless connection, work areas, and refreshments available to us throughout FETC.
Go- I will be attending the opening session which is 3:30-5:00 PM. From there I'll head to the Exhibit Hall's Grand Opening. There are several companies I will be looking for this evening: Discovery Education, SMART, and Epson to name a few.
Monday, January 11, 2010
Vendor Hall Exhibit
FETC Vendor Hall opening reception is set for Wednesday, January 13 from 5:00-7:00PM.
On Thursday, the Vendor Hall is open 9:00-5:30PM and on Friday, 9:00-2:30PM. Visiting vendors enables attendees to see products, demonstrations, and attend staff development.
On Thursday, the Vendor Hall is open 9:00-5:30PM and on Friday, 9:00-2:30PM. Visiting vendors enables attendees to see products, demonstrations, and attend staff development.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Gearing up!
FETC 2010 is just around the corner. I asked colleagues if they made a schedule to follow while at the conference. The majority of responses indicate the attempt is made, but so much can happen.
The exhibit hall is a big draw not only to see many of the hardware and software products out, but also for the opportunity in attending sessions dealing with the product. Many companies offer staff development in connection with a product purchase. Ask if it is included with the purchase and be sure to follow up and schedule sessions for your staff members.
I've been reading all that I can on the FETC web site . If I am informed, I hope to make wise choices for my time at the conference. I plan on being comfortable and doing a lot of walking. I'll be adding information daily and hope it will benefit those of you who 'pass' by.
The exhibit hall is a big draw not only to see many of the hardware and software products out, but also for the opportunity in attending sessions dealing with the product. Many companies offer staff development in connection with a product purchase. Ask if it is included with the purchase and be sure to follow up and schedule sessions for your staff members.
I've been reading all that I can on the FETC web site . If I am informed, I hope to make wise choices for my time at the conference. I plan on being comfortable and doing a lot of walking. I'll be adding information daily and hope it will benefit those of you who 'pass' by.
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