Images

http://www.picnik.com/

This would have to be my favourite of all technological tools explored thus far! I thoroughly enjoy fiddling around with the controls in order to change quite a plain photo into a peice of art which is visually stimulating. In the photo above, I altered the saturation, contrast as well as applied the effect '1960s' and quite like the warmified feel. This website has the usual saturation filters and resizing options, as well as a variety of effects, borders, stamps and the ability to place text onto the photograph quite easily. This could change a quite ordinary learning experience plan into an amazing one, as the old saying goes, "Pictures say a thousand things."

I have also found another useful website, that may be more geared towards the educational context in the editing of photos. Big Huge Labs allows you to upload a photo and transform that photo into a calender, badge, cube, magazine cover, etc. The opportunities are endless and can be used quite extensively in the classroom. Below is just one of the effects available.

By using images in the classroom context, you could activate prior knowledge on a subject, engage as a hook as well as use an image as a representation of a concept. Images can evoke emotions and feelings amongst the learners in relation to a certain topic that may challenge the learners.

By simply displaying a picture of the sun on the IWB, students are automatically positioning themselves to learn about the sun. The thoughts, feelings and knowledge are brought to the surface almost instantaneously, by simply using a visual cue to position the viewer. Different pictures can also be misconstrued to position the audience, and students must have knowledge and scaffolding of critical literacy.

Images can definately be used within an educational context, as long as the Learning Manager has a purpose for the picture.