Ramblings from the Father of Twins

Take a quick trip back in time here.

Reference Strand: Professional Learning Networks

My title is one of the first thoughts that rambled through my mind as I listened to the podcast “The Collaborative ABC Project: Using Technology to Tell Stories” presented by Kevin Hodgson and Bonnie Kaplan as a part of the Professional Learning Networks strand posted on October 22nd.

Taking the presentation in its mp3 format, I could only place visuals in my mind as the concept continued to develop. Hodgson and Kaplan’s focus for their presentation was to create a digital storybook on the alphabet with help from the story “Chicka Chicka Boom Boom” integrating Web 2.0 tools and collaboration from others across the web. With the help from their personal network of educators, they solicited assistance nationwide for anyone who wanted to participate – many of whom had never created stories in a digital format. This presentation provided the unique process of development, experimentation and eventually compiling the final presentation that was available. In the process, snippets of various parts of the presentation were included for additional support.

As I listened, I believed the mp3 format was a teaser. Much of what was being said in the podcast needed the visual element to cement the true concept. The audio provided the initial introduction but it made me want more in the process. I believe this may have been beneficial because it gave me a reason to return for more. I could have done without the B movie style music track played behind the audio but I overlooked this for the meat of the content.

When I returned to the K12 site, I found the supporting documentation available that included the site, individual presentations and the final cut. In addition, the link to JumpCut (the online tool used for production) was also included as a reference. The creators also included an open invitation for anyone who might want to join in on the development.

Overall, I believe the complete package – concept, use of technology, presentation of mp3 and associated web materials – provides an instant attraction for those who want to learn and build using this model for storytelling.

I’m currently considering adding my visions of the ABCs – based on the my title cereal and Saturday morning cartoons was my first thought.