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(Narrator) We all learn differently.
(Lea) Do you find that written assignments
don't show the complete picture of what you know?
Do writing difficulties discourage you from expressing your ideas?
Do you like to be creative, and see things from a different perspective?
If so, you can try doing some assignments
using computer-based alternatives to writing, such as multimedia.
(Alex) If, like me, you have trouble expressing yourself effectively on paper
but have strong visual skills,
you could try using technologies that maximize your strengths.
Sometimes I use photo, video
and even animation applications to prepare assignments.
For example, if you had a project to do on protecting the environment,
you could use any of these technologies
to create a public service announcement on the importance of recycling.
Storyboarding is another application I like to use to communicate my ideas.
A storyboard uses artwork and short pieces of text to tell a story, like a comic strip.
Remember that you still need to use some of the same strategies
you would use for a written assignment.
you will need to plan, organize and review your work.
So make sure to give yourself enough time!
(Lea) Thanks, Alex!
One of the other advantages of working with multimedia tools
is that they make it easy to work together and let you share what you have created.
For example, here is a student using an interactive whiteboard
to bring his presentation to life.
(Student) My teacher said it didn't have to be a print presentation.
I was really happy because, I, I'm not very good at drawing, so,
it's easier just to do it on the computer.
(Lea) Creating a website is another way to show what you know.
A written assignment is a linear product.
It has a beginning, middle and end,
but people don't always think or speak in a linear fashion.
For example, in the middle of telling a story,
we might stop and say, "Oh, by the way...."
When we're finished our side comment,
we just continue our original story where we left off.
By creating a website for your assignment,
you can use this type of natural communication
thanks to links and menus that allow you to add
related information on a topic.
Learning need not be limited
by mastering a single mode of communication like writing.
Learning is also about understanding different perspectives,
building new skills and being able to share
what you've learned in an appropriate way.
New applications are coming out all the time, and some are even free.
So get creative and have fun
using various multimedia tools for assignments and presentations.
For information on other types of learning technologies,
including pointers to some applications you can download,
go to our website and look under the Student tab.
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