Mi primera foto modificada en PICASA / My first modified picture from PICASA

 

I had already had Picasa in my computer but I hadn't had time to explore all of its features. I was extremely educative what Chris did in our CALL class. We learned how to use basic features of the software while listening to his instructions in perfect Spanish. And at the end we were able to blog from Picasa with one click.

Sometimes it is difficult for me to link teaching with practical ideas. This happens may be because I learned English following the Grammar-Translation Method, and I tend to think of grammar chunks in lieu of contexts or real uses of language.

So Chris' demonstration reminded me of linking something I already know, with language in a purposeful way. His students didn't require previous knowledge of Spanish, he was talking all the time in the target language, he was introducing vocabulary and commands, and he didn't take much time. To me that sounds like the perfect scenario to use technology and integrate it with learning in a successful way. Plus it was connected to a regular activity in our class, blogs, so the wrap up was perfect.

For sure I will think of blogging from Picasa in the future, and right now I can foresee the elaboration of stories with pictures or even videos (once I learned how to do it because I still can't). Gracias Chris, ya tenía el programa pero no había explorado estas aplicaciones. Thanks Chris I already had the program but I hadn't explored these features yet.