Tech Directions - October 2007 - (Page 21)

By Edward J. Lazaros and Thomas H. Spotts ejlazaros@bsu.edu; tspotts@bsu.edu A CCCORDING to Kleiman (2000), the idea that simply putting computers in schools will improve learning is a myth. But he contends that while computers are indeed powerful tools that can enhance learning, the extent to which they influence learning depends on how well educators put them to use. This article presents an activity for using PowerPoint to teach graphic design that provides both cost-effective and educationally effective use of the computer in the technology education class. While PowerPoint is generally Edward J. Lazaros is assistant professor of technology, and Thomas H. Spotts is associate professor of technology, Department of Technology, Ball State University, Muncie, IN. regarded as simply software for creating slide presentations, it includes often overlooked—but powerful—drawing tools. Because it is part of the Microsoft Office package, PowerPoint comes preloaded on many computers and thus is already available in many classrooms. Since most computers are not preloaded with good drawing programs, use of PowerPoint will allow educators to teach graphic design concepts without having to purchase expensive additional software. After considering the research showing that computers are not used to their full potential in schools (see sidebar on page 24) and that it is difficult for educators to locate and/ or pay for software to support education curriculum, we created the following PowerPoint design brief. It provides an inexpensive but effective way to teach graphic design with commonly available software. network of computers. (Access is provided by Internet service providers like AOL.) Mouse—A hardware device that fits in the palm of the hand and is dragged across a flat surface to move a pointer on the computer screen. Online—Refers to the situation in which a computer is on and connected to a network like the Internet. Software—Programs that allow users to perform specific tasks with their computers. The Challenge Students will select the image of a phone of their choice from the Internet, then render it using the Microsoft PowerPoint drawing tools. Objectives On the completion of this design brief, students will be able to: 1. Effectively use the basic drawing tools included with Microsoft PowerPoint to develop a color, visually appealing cellular phone design. 2. Locate and incorporate visual graphics or images into the cellular telephone design. 3. Work cooperatively with peers Key Terms Computer—An electronic device that can store, retrieve, organize, and process information according to a user’s specifications. Internet—The world’s largest Materials/Equipment List Personal computer PowerPoint software Internet access Color printer Printer paper www.techdirections.com COMMUNICATION 21 A Peer-Reviewed Article Teach Graphic Design Basics with PowerPoint http://www.techdirections.com

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Tech Directions - October 2007

Tech Directions - October 2007 Technically Speaking Contents Direct from Washington The News Report Technology Today Technology’s Past Mastering Computers Rock Your Classroom!—Use Subwoofers to Teach Electricity and Science Sure, They Can Build It, But. . . . Manufacturing Students Need Process Planning Skills Teach Graphic Design Basics with PowerPoint Free Teacher Resources Product Central More than Fun

Tech Directions - October 2007

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