Jing seems really neat. With the 4th and 5th graders, I could see this as a huge help in technology projects, or teaching the students how to use a new program. I think it would be great to have the teacher model the step by step approach to say, PowerPoint, and then show the students the "help video" on Jing so that when they get lost or have a question, they can use this Jing video first! This could possible eliminate many questions and save time. If students are constantly asking you the same question about the computer and logging in, maybe this would be a solution! The students could eventually even create their own, showing their peers how to use one of their favorite websites or programs!
If you actually started with Skype, and connected with another classroom in say Japan, you could (aside from the translating) essentially have a "pen pal" class that you discuss differences in customs, how they practice math and use the abacus, how they hunt and get food, what type of animals are common in the area... then eventually the students could share with each other using Jing! WOW! That is super cool!
The only downfall with Skype is that our DELL computers don't have built in cameras! Maybe that is something that could be given away in a contest or something. I'm sure they aren't too expensive!
You have REALLY put a lot of effort into doing the 11 Tools and finding resources that will be useful for you and for our teachers. I know that our students and teachers will benefit from your hard work. Great job linking all of your findings to your blog!
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