Where can digital photos be found on the Internet?

Digital photography can change the way children learn. Integrating digital photos in the classroom is a great way for improving student's interaction both with teachers and other students, and it can also be helpful for visual learners to learn and improve their comprehension. 

There are many places where we can find digital photos on the Internet. 

For example: 

1. Flickr - a place where we can find more millions of free images

2. Shutter Stock - high quality photos can be found here

3. Unsplash - Free high-resolution photos

4. Picjumbo 

5. Free digital photos - free download of high quality photos

6. Pixabay

References:

Schiller, J., & Tillett, B. (2004). Using digital images with young children: challenges of integration. Early Child Development & Care, 174(4), 401-414.

Enchancing Learning with Visuals

Visuals are highly important when it comes to learning. There are a lot of different learning methods which teachers should apply in their teaching in order to interest different types to learning styles. Visual learning is definitely one of them. There are various visual aids for teacher to use in their classroom: they can play videos, show pictures, use slide shows, charts, powerpoint presentations, etc. All of these can help student learn because they can actually see what is being taught to them. It really enchances learning because hearing words is abstract, whereas, visuals are concrete and therefore easier to be remembered.

Visual learning can also decrease learning time and improve comprehension. According to a study, visual learning plays an important role in the development of individuals, it promotes higher order of thinking skills and abilities.

In summery, in order to have an effective lesson, teacher should include visual learning in their teaching because it makes learning much more meaningful for students and it meets their needs.

References:

Dhanapal, S., Kanapathy, R., & Mastan, J. (2014). A study to understand the role of visual arts in the teaching and learning of science. Asia-Pacific Forum On Science Learning & Teaching, 15(2), 1-25.

Questions:

1. What is the best way to integrate visuals into the lessons?

2. Which visual aid do you like the most?

3. Is visual learing more efficiant?

Compass Learning

1. How does the software differentiate instruction for different  learning styles?
Software has the lessons that are thematic and follow the same pattern such as a pre-reading activity for introducing new academic ideas, a digital presentations of the story, and comprehension exercises. Therefore, we have SEE, HEAR, DO.

Furthermore, teachers make accomodations for mastery levels, students can pace during their work and a teacher can make instructions based on the grades and assessment results.

2. Does the software increase skills in knowledge reinforcement, concept development, and or problem solving? How?
 Yes, it increases it, because it has explicit instruction, supported practice, independent practice and ongoing arrangement. This instruction allows students to connect with the material and to gain critical-thinking and problem solving skills.

3. What is the name of the company that publishes the software product?
The name is Compass Learning.

4. How will you use this software in your classroom? Why?
I would use this software in my classroom for guiding my instructions in the classroom. Also, to help my students achieve great academic results, since it is a great and fun way for children to learn, to keep them motivated and interested. Finally, this software is a very good way to make a great partnership between teacher, students, but also parents because they can log in to view student's assessment results.




References:
Cobb, A. (2010). To differentiate ot not to differentiate? Using internet-based technology in the          classroom. Quarterly review of distance education. Vol. 11

Compass Learning. (n.d.). Retrieved October 05, 2016, from https://compasslearning.com/