BP2_Mental Case

Howdy! I must admit I became overwhelmed at the thought of narrowing down a Web 2.0 selection to just one specific Web-based tool that could easily facilitate language learning on the go. There are a ton of translating tools, but I wanted to find something that encouraged more input from the user so that the uses would be more ongoing.  I’m interested in finding new ways of integrating mobile applications to encourage and motivate students learning a new language.  Retention, repetition and interaction play a big part in learning a new language, so I was hoping to find a tool that was easily accessible, encouraged interactive learning outside of the classroom and that could be shared among peers.

After watching some tutorials, I put together a summary of this application, Mental Case, and briefly mention some fun highlights of the top features and usability. 

As far as usability goes, Mental Case has a nice balance of functionality; desktop and iPhone/iPod touch integration and can also work with android operating systems. Some of my favorite features include:  mental notes, repetitive learning, sharing and syncing.  You can sync directly with Mental Case for iPhone or iPad over a wifi network, or export mental notes to transfer them to a classic iPod, upload to the web, or share with others.

Mental notes encourage study habits to happen engagingly and ongoing by scheduling and allowing adjustments to lessons included. Mental Case uses an optimized algorithm to help users gage their study time and to maximum memory retention by tracking the amount of time you spend studying.  These notes are a lot like regular flash cards, but have a more interactive perk.  You can add text, along with images and audio to each note to assist with memory, association, and pronunciation when specifically used for language learning.  This has to be my favorite feature since experiencing a lesson and being able to add your own spin on what you are learning can make all the difference in a student continuing use and can contribute to that student’s desire to continue learning and applying more.

Thanks for stopping by. I’d love to hear any feedback you have about this tool…let me know what you think!

Until next time, every good wish.

Sabrina

BP1_Welcome to My Blog

BP1_Welcome to My Blog

Hello and welcome to my blog! 



My name is Sabrina. I am currently working towards my second year at Full Sail University as an Online Admissions Representative. I am also teaching ESL in a classroom setting as well as providing private lessons. My background began in marketing and design, and then progressed into working with Non-Profit Organizations. In the more recent years I have been introduced to the world of education...and I am in love!

 

I am currently enrolled in the Education Media Design Technology Masters degree program. Attending Full Sail University was inevitable for me, as I have always been attracted to the innovative approach and programming offered at the school but was waiting for the right moment to move forward with a decision. As fate and fortune would have it, after moving back to Orlando from South Korea, a job opening was presented to me at Full Sail and I happily accepted. 



While in South Korea, I had my first experience teaching K-4th graders and it was a riot! I was impressed to discover how tech savvy my kids were and how naturally they integrated these tools into the classroom. My students used a variety of tools from audio recordings on homework assignments to creating videos with story lines using the green screen, to a role call system that sent text messages to parents when a student was tardy or absent. There were even interactive lesson plans, fun tutorials, songs and games incorporated into assignments. Many days my students were teaching me how to use the gear! They were great, extremely bright kids and really had fun and they actually looked forward to being in the classroom because they were such a big part of the learning process. 



Following this experience, I found myself intrigued by the technology behind the learning experience and craved the opportunity to be a part of it. Soon after beginning my role here at Full Sail and learning about the EMDTMS program, enrolling just seemed like a natural step. I am excited to discover what happens next…the opportunities seem limitless. 

During this program and through this blog page, I hope to explore and participate in discussions of best practices and the necessary involvement of new technologies to enhance learning, specifically when learning a second or foreign language. Games as educational tools offer opportunities to further develop current teaching practices but can also present new opportunities not yet explored.  I look forward to finding ways to enhance the full learning experience where learners become more engaged, and comfortable experimenting their newly acquired knowledge in a safe and fun environment.  I feel this is especially crucial for learning and retention of a new language. Finding new ways to create a heightened learning experience will, I believe, create life experiences and learning memories that will stay with students well after they leave the classroom. While working at Full Sail in Admission, participating in the EMDT program and teaching ESL, I am confident I will have many fun experiences to share!  Thank you for stopping by and make sure to add me and follow my blog!  

Until next time, every good wish. 

Sabrina