Herman Wood

GarageBand Introduction

GarageBand is a fun tool that can used to create music, either with built in loops, touching keys on the keyboard, or via a MIDI instrument attached to the computer. It can also create a podcast or score a movie!

Even a musical imbecile like me can create an nice introductory piece for a slideshow or movie!

We have created written documentation to help with using the program. You can find it at:
http://www.cobb.k12.ga.us/instructionaltechnology/mac/iTools_06.html

You should start by trying to create a short 15 to 30 second loop that could be used for introducing a slide show or movie. The first handout in the series, GarageBand Music, will take you through that.

The other documents can also help with podcasting and attaching MIDI instruments.

As always, Atomic Learning (login required) provides great information as well. Here's the link to the basics:
http://movies.atomiclearning.com/k12/garageband3_wn

If you teach music, there's lesson accelerators that may also help:
http://movies.atomiclearning.com/k12/la_gstaff_gb3mac
http://movies.atomiclearning.com/k12/la_noteval_gb3mac

Being a musical imbecile, I don't feel qualified to comment on what level the lessons are appropriate for.

Georgia Educational Technology Conference

I'm at the Georgia Educational Technology Conference down by the airport. I am posting from every session, but on my personal blog. Please feel free to go read at: http://edtech.typepad.com/theblog/

INFORM

INFORM is a service that the district uses for registration for staff development and more. Go to: https://cobb.edmin.com/ to sign in see what's available.

To register for Professional Learning, go down the navigation on the left side of the page to INFORM, then click on staff development tracker. The first option is usually highlighted, which is the Staff Development catalog.

Nettrekker

Nettrekker is an amazing resource available to Cobb teachers and students. First, let's take a look at basic information: http://tiscobb.typepad.com/newteacher/nettrekker-di.html

While on the Cobb network, you are able to go in without a login. You, and your students, can create a login so that it can be used from home.

Here's a link to a quick reference guide: http://www.nettrekker.com/pdf/di/nTdi_Quick_Ref_Guide.pdf

Here's the link to Atomic Learning Resources for Nettrekker: http://www.atomiclearning.com/nettrekker_di