Video cameras, Internet access, online services, software and CD-ROM reference titles provide varied learning experiences that motivate students to explore and create. Try to provide as many opportunities as possible for students to realize and utilize their strengths Structure activities by offering choice and latitude. Used in the right way, computers encourage students to take risks. A child who experiences difficulty writing in the traditional way may improve substantially by using a computer for writing, editing, revising, and polishing. A student who has trouble drawing can develop design and spatial skills through the use of graphics programs Be aware of children's special needs.
Some children naturally move through material more quickly than others.
You'll need to keep them challenged without moving so fast that children who need more time get left behind. In the case of very bright children, try to include one other student in the group at a similar ability level so they can stimulate and challenge one another You can use forms of technology such as email, online bulletin boards, or video and audio files to assess each group member's contribution and provide opportunities for students to evaluate the cooperative learning process after each assignment is completed Create a library of technology-based cooperative lessons that you can integrate into your lesson plans. State resources online will have ideas to try, or you can connect with teacher groups through commercial online services and the Internet. There are myriad multimedia software products you can incorporate into collaborative learning projects. Students can create presentations using desktop publishing software like Quark Express or Pagemaker , design programs like Adobe Illustrator or Claris Draw , or multimedia programs like Adobe Persuasion or Powerpoint .