Technology and Business Today and Tomorrow

Facebook in the Classroom July 29, 2009

So I am working on my thesis: With high school students spending more and more time on social networking sites such as Ning and Facebook, utilizing those same tools in the high school classroom could encourage students to actively engage in the daily classroom discussion and assist students in staying current with daily work.  I have found some very valuable resources that I will be able to use when I begin the actual writing.

One of those resources I wanted to share with you.  Drive, Belonging, and Engagement in the Classroom using Facebook.  There is some great information in this slide presentation.  It includes Facebook Stats, How to have students create a profile, creating lists and groups, publishing notes, and Sharing examples.  Most the thing I found most interesting is a third party application called Courses.  This facebook application has instructor and course management functionality.  With this application you have the ability to add your students WITHOUT befriending them on Facebook.

So if you are looking for a way to use Facebook in your class (and need to convince your administration that it can be utilized in a positive way), check out this presentation!!

MAC Tips and Tricks July 26, 2009

Are you looking for a site that helps you understand and use your MAC?  Well I think I found one.  UsingMac.Com has Daily Tricks, Tips and Tricks, Wallpapers, and Tweaks!

The site provides helpful tips on how to use the Mac and various applications on the Mac.  For example:  Daily Trick 14: Minimize Window explains how to use a keyboard shortcut to minimize the window that you are currently using.

The site also provides links to locations on the web for items for your Mac.  For example:  30+ Free Menubar Applications for Mac.  One of those menubar applications is the InstantShot! which offers screenshot functionality.

What about Adium?  It’s a free instant messaging application that connects several instant messaging programs together like AIM, Yahoo, MSN, and more.

So check out UsingMac.com to learn more!