Mammals, Mammals Everywhere

The second grade curriculum provides many opportunities for use of computers in the classroom. Each second grade student is required to complete a research report each year on a mammal.
1-The students use the internet to research their mammal in depth. The students access a variety of different websites in order to find information on their particular mammal.
2-The student will then take on-line field trips to explore the location of their mammal. The students gain an understanding of their community. They gain a vision of the global world and are able to see how their community compares and fits into the global picture with other countries and with other continents. All learning levels and styles can be accommodated through the use of the computer.
3-The student is required to use programs such as Nystrom Exploring Where and Why to enhance their map skills. The students are able to use maps in their reports to explain where their mammals can be found. This program allows the students to view their world from outside of their planet and gives the children the ability to see how the earth rotates and why we have night and day.
4-The students then use Microsoft Word to type and publish their reports. They incorporate not only typed words but pictures, maps, and art work.
5-The students then prepare a PowerPoint to present their mammal to the other students in the classroom.
There is so much more that can be done with this project with the right camera equipment. With the proper technology I would like to incorporate the following:
1-I would like to combine all PowerPoint projects into a master PowerPoint project and show each individual's to his/her parent at conferences. With a digital camera I would take each child's photo and use that picture in the Table of Contents in order to find each project quickly. I would then use a projector or LCD screen to display the child's project to the parents.
2-With a digital video camera I would video different activities done in the classroom and even field trips that are taken throughout the year. I could then format them into a presentation to be shown to parents waiting in line at parent/teacher conferences.
3-With up-to-date technology I could create learning tools/games for students to use during centers. Centers are individual learning times where students work independently. These centers work well for all learning styles. Students are able to work slowly if necessary or accelerated learners can work quickly and complete more activities and are not hindered by slower learners. The computers in the classroom at present are not capable of holding all of the data/information/programs that I need to complete these learning tools/games.
4-I also dream of having each student be an active participant of our school's website by contributing to the second grade page/section of the website. With the proper computers, software, scanners, printers, and cameras they would be able to create art work, newsletters, papers, post upcoming classroom events, advertisement, etc. The list of possibilities is endless.

When children are given the opportunity to use computers in the classroom for more than just researching on the internet, it intrinsically enhances their learning experience. Computers allow the creative and technical side of each student to be developed. Computers and all of their uses provide vast opportunities for each and every child no matter what their age, learning ability, or learning style. The information world is endless. I, as a teacher, want to be able to provide each child a pathway into the endless world of opportunities through the use of a up-to-date technology.