ActivInspire Flipcharts

This week we completed our work in ActivInspire, the software that is used to create flipcharts and other projects for the Promethean Board.  Flipcharts are similar to PowerPoints in that they have several pages.  However, they can be interactive which adds a lot to a lesson.  I created a flipchart on 3rd grade multiplication.  Here is the title page and an example of an interactive page within the flipchart:

Students can drag the numbers and symbols from the cloud into place, use the pen to write, and drag infinite copies of the seashell to solve equations.

What went well:

• I found this to be very useful.  If I ever find myself in a classroom with a promethean board, I will be very glad I am familiar with the accompanying software.
• The software, although I had some issues with it on my computer, is free!
• I thought the process was enjoyable and fun getting to decorate, select images, brainstorm ways to make the lesson interactive, etc. 

And not so well:

• Because this project is fairly new to TPTE 486, there were questions that the instructors did not know the answer to which I feel created some confusion.
• I had some issues with the software on my personal computer, which certainly could be an operator error, but I will have to figure this out if I ever need to use it in the future.

Potential uses in my classroom:

I plan to have a very hands-on, active classroom whenever possible.  I think this is a great way to incorporate interactive elements into a lesson using technology as opposed to spending money on tangible materials.  I would not use it as a substitute in every case, but it is a good option to have!  Some uses might include:

• other types of math lessons using the drag a copy option, etc.
• vocabulary lessons
• labeling parts of a plant or other diagrams in science
• literature supplements
• anything really!

I enjoyed learning this program and feel that it is one I definitely see myself using in the future (as long as I have access to a Promethean Board of course!).