PhotoStory is Uber Cool!

If you know anything about me, or in some cases, passed me on the sidewalk while I clumsily walk with my face buried in a book, you'd know at least one thing. What would that one thing be you ask? Well, I'd assume that was obvious, but for those of you who are still searching in the dark I'll tell you . . . I like books. No! Change that, I LOVE books. In fact, I don't think I've gone past 24 hours without reading one. I'm sure you're asking yourself how this has anything to do with Computers & Such, but I assure you, I have a point.

I'm sure you've read my other blog posts and have concluded that I am a slight skeptic in regards to certain aspects of technology. But I wouldn't necessarily agree with that assessment. It isn't that I'm a skeptic, I just have reservations with what is exposed or how technology is used. However, one thing I am not a skeptic of, but am 100%, full-on, without a doubt a supporter of is books. So when I'm introduced to aspects of technology that perpetuate or exploit the art of literature (accept for the Kindle. I do not like the Kindle) I'm on board.

I'm sure you're on the edge of your seats, palms sweating with anticipation, and eagerly waiting for my reveal of what this technology is, so I won't hold you in suspense any longer . . . drum roll please . . . PHOTOSTORY!!

I have yet to create my own, BUT I have been able to doodle here and there with a few sample pictures and let me tell you, it definitely had a wow-factor. It wasn't simply a slideshow of images or a PowerPoint with somewhat fascinating transitions. But there is text, narration, a soundtrack (yes, a soundtrack!), and far greater technological capabilities than I'm used to. In one word, it is amazing. It's like having a picture book with moving images. A book with a voice. And of course, a book with musical accompaniments. For those of us who consider ourselves to be a lover of literature or writing, it is a tool that has its serious possibilities.

Not only can PhotoStory be used in leisure for our own viewing pleasure, but it can be incorporated into the classroom to bring life to content areas such as math, social studies, science, language arts, and more. With whatever topic being covered, a teacher can modify, create, and differentiate instruction through the production and use of one of these stories. Oh, but that's not all! Students can then place their ideas, imagination, thoughts, and stories onto an impressive final product. For those students who may not have the most comfortable disposition in front of an audience, as Sandy pointed out, their unheard voices are given an outlet. Talk about involving technology into the classroom! Thus far, I think this is my favorite thing we've learned.

But, falling back into reality, let's just hope my enthusiasm manifests itself into great technological skills and ability while creating my own!