There are two types of writing activities that I would use, and they are concept maps and collaborative writing. Concept maps are a type of organizational writing tool. This helps students identify important concepts, arranges those concepts , identifies the similarity of those concepts, and labels the relationship of those concepts. There are some computer based mapping tools like semantic networks, which make it easier on the students to link concepts together. This network, also offers intentional and analysis tools. The positive aspect of using concept maps are that students can generate ideas quickly, arrange existing ideas, and they can discuss their organized map. Collaborative writing activities, allow students to come together with all of their ideas. The benefit of these type of writing activities are there is a positive relationship between the students, varied points of view, and more sources and input.
If I was presenting a power point to my classroom, the way that I would not let the power point presentation distract my audience is to give the class a quiz or just a discussion about what was presented. If students know that they will be questioned over what they are about to learn, then they will listen and pay attention. One way that I could avoid the potential pitfalls, is to not make my presentation too long, and too unique. I have been in many classrooms, where the power point presentations were like fifty slides long, and by the end I was about to fall asleep. I want to keep my students attention, and make it fun for them as well. Students can only take in so much information at one time, so I would definitely avoid having too many slides.
Incorporating technology in the classroom like the ones I have listed, is very beneficial to the students but it does put a lot of responsibility on the teacher as well. With concept maps, you want your students to not goof off, because this kind of writing activity can really be beneficial, so you want to push your students to do well. With collaborative learning, the best thing to do is keep the group positive and going. Power points have always been a popular teaching tool, but they are an easy distraction if not presented in the appropriate way. The main goal is to keep your students attention, avoid too many slides, and avoid too much animation and fonts.
References
Jonassen, D., Howland, J., Marra, R. M. & Grismond, D. (2008) Pearson, Merrill/Prentice Hall, 3rd edition
