Journal #2

     At the conclusion of my last post, I was in the midst of preparing for a training session with my language arts colleagues that would cover using the toolbars and basic functions of the Mimio Interactive Whiteboard.  I feel that the preparations I made were a perfect fit for my audience and that they walked away with a better understanding of the Mimio.  My next task is to demonstrate more advanced features of the Mimio such as importing powerpoints and images from the gallery, and navigating the Internet.  I would also like to introduce them to screen and video captures by using Jing.      
    While surveying the comfort levels of my colleagues with using the Mimio during instructional time, I discovered they were less comfortable than I had originally thought.  This made me reevaluate my idea for a semester project.  I am now leaning more towards creating tutorials for the Mimio.  When I found out that most teachers didn't know how to plug in their Mimio, my immediate thought was that I needed to reconsider my semester project. 
     I found the IDEO Method Cards, that we used in class on September 6th, to be very helpful when considering viewpoints of the client.  Specifically, I found the "Fly on the Wall" card to be a great idea for me to try before designing my prototype.  Quick observations would allow me to identify the functions of the Mimio that teachers struggle with the most.  I could then tailor my tutorials to fit their needs.  A "Personal Inventory" would allow my colleagues to share their interests and how they intend on using the technology daily to enhance their lessons.  Another card I would use is "Card Sort" to further determine their priorities with using the Mimio. 
     In the next few days, I hope to solidify my project idea and begin brainstorming about the components and design.  First and foremost, my goal is to design a tool that can be used throughout my school to increase technology usage.  As always, I'm looking forward to the challenge.

Holly    



Moggridge, B. (2007). Designing interactions. Cambridge, MA: MIT Press.