Summer Seminars and Software News

Summer Seminar Reminders
Sign up for all workshops on Bob. All workshops at 85A Lab on the Paly campus.

Nextech - June 16-20, 9:00-12:00 (1 unit) - 6 spots left
June 16: SMART Board Technology, Lessons, and Practice
June 17: iSpeak - Podcasting & Other Audio Tools
June 18: Collaboration - Blogs, Wikis, Distance Learning
June 19: Digital Imaging & Video - New Tools for Visual Learning
June 20: Cool Tools - Preview Interesting Freeware / Shareware

PowerUp - August 11-15, 8:30-3:30 (2 units)
Wait list - Email me if interested.


Wimba on InClass: Live Audio Talks

InClass users can now do their own versions of webinars! Teachers can host live presentations, test reviews, homework help sessions, or office hours. Wimba Classroom Express offers built-in software to make all of these services possible.

When you log on to InClass, click on the Communication link, at left under Tools. Then click on the Wimba Classroom link. Automatically, there is a Wimba Classroom for your course. A SetupWizard takes your and your students' computers through the paces to make sure they are ready for Wimba. New computers should do just fine; for others, the Wizard will download and install whatever is needed.

Click on Enter Class and you're ready to upload content. Just click on the arrow sign to the right of GO to upload a Powerpoint presentation. You can present your slides one at a time, talking through them, and your students can "raise their hands" to ask questions. Each participant holds down the TALK button to be heard by the rest of the group. Note that you can also click on the Web button and share a website of interest.

Maybe try Wimba out with a couple of students or colleagues to get ready for next year? A full manual is a click away (note the Wimba Classroom Help link). Or ask me to drop by and demo this new feature to you and your colleagues.


Smartboard Notebook Version 10: Ready When You Are
The new version of Smartboard software has features that make it well worth the download. Things like tables and shape recognition and object animation and even spell check. Go to http://www.smarttech.com and then to the Software Downloads section. Choose PC or Mac and go for the full Version 10 download.

You'll be asked for a serial number. If you have a Smartboard, you'll find it on the side, probably starting with SB680. If you don't have a Smartboard but want to use the software, use this serial number: SB680-R2-452799. Smarttech will send you an email with a product key and download link. After you download and install the software, you'll be asked to type in the product key, and then the software is fully operational.

Two summer workshops will help you learn the new software: Day 1 of Nextech on Monday, June 16, 9:00-12:00, will focus on Smartboards as well as a 2-hour introduction on August 20, 1:00-3:00. Both meet at the 85A Lab on the Paly campus.