Wednesday, March 18, 2009

iTunes U - WGBH (Boston's PBS Station)


A digital library free to the public, WGBH's "Teacher Domain" on iTunes U features media derived from PBS programs such as FRONTLINE, NOVA, and American Experience. Programs from other public broadcast stations are also available. The domain is divided into three sections representing each grade level - K-5, 6-8, and 9-12. The media is designed to enhance teaching and learning skills. Being an elementary education major, I focused primarily on K-5, but did explore the other grade levels. There were nine tracks available, all scientific based. All tracks come with down loadable informational guides to aid teachers in the instruction of the topics. iThough I found all to be very interesting, "A Night in the Coral Reef" was one that stood out. Filmed in an actual reef, the narrator gave a clear explanation of the activities taking place while also providing information on the more prominent sea creatures. In the video "Observe Clouds", students are encouraged to pay more attention to the clouds in that they change by the second.
Here is another example of a wonderful resource which can be used to make the learning experience more interesting for the student. It also provides an added mechanism by which a teacher may be able to provide a clearer understanding of what is being taught. Another site I'm sure to refer back to once I become a teacher.
For more information on these videos and more like them, visit WGBH-Teachers Domain

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