Journal #9

Animations Bring Lessons to Life

Ponton, Robb. (2009-2010, December/Janurary). Animation brings lessons to life. Learning and Leading with Technology, 37(4), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=December_January_No_4_4&Template=/MembersOnly.cfm&NavMenuID=4450&ContentID=24837&DirectListComboInd=D

At Williamsburg-James City County Public Schools teachers are using computer animation and other graphics to supplement their lesson. For example in science, the atoms are animated as electrons and neutrons swirl them and it helps students to understand more clearly the concepts of the periodic table. In art, teachers show students a drawing from a professional artist. They then show how the image can be broken down into its basic shapes. Next, they have the students put the shapes back together. Teachers give students a picture of an animal and show them how to create the animal's face using shapes. Using graphics software, students begin to see how they can create their own dogs or cats. 4th grade students created animated images of the U.S. Constitution amendments. A high school chemistry class used animated software to bring to life chemical reactions. Spanish class students used animation to help them understand verbs and grammar concepts in Spanish. Computer animation is a great tool to help students understand abstract concepts . It makes learning more interactive and meaningful.

How can computer animation be incorporated for special needs students?
This is a great resources and fun way to present a lesson. Specially for more abstract concepts, it a great aide for the visual learners.  Computer animation can help students across the curicullum, making learning more intearctive and fun.

What are the advantages of using computer animation in the classroom?
As seem by teachers at Williamsburg-James City County Public Schools, students showed great enthusiasm in learning.  They were so excited about the subject content that they created projects that were very impressive.  When students understand better the concept, and can connect their learning with real-life situations they are much more engaged in school.