DigitalGadgetReflectionsbyMelitta

Global Positioning Systems

The GPS system is amazing. I enjoyed Holly's in-class demonstrations. Apparently these devices are hands free and can be voice activated. I think these electronic devices should be installed in all new cars as a regular option. I really enjoyed this topic.

The TomTom device

All about GPS systems - Link

GPS satellites broadcast signals from space that GPS receivers use to provide three-dimensional location (latitude, longitude, and altitude) plus precise time.

Cell Phones

Viewing a wide range of cell phones was a lot of fun. Having "Best Buy"Computer Geeks demonstrate and answer questions was super. I really enjoyed this classroom event and learned a lot. I’m sure that the next cell phone choice that I make will be somewhat influenced by this classroom learning experience.

Cell Phones - Link

Google Documents

Google Docs Online Word Processing Software has a multitude of different features.. Being able to store documents online and accessing from anywhere is very convenient, although it can be a drawback if Internet access is unavailable. I would have liked to spend more time on the various functions in this program.

All About Google Documents Link

E Books

Discovering E-Books and their downloading sources was informative. Actually performing the process in class was very helpful. I think that I will probably use this reading format in the future, as it lets you store a lot of reading material in a tiny space that can be easily carried with you.

A reference to E books - Link

Video on - "What are E Books"?

Picasa

Picasa is a great new program. It was free and very easy to download. I am somewhat familiar with Photoshop, but found that there were functions that Picasa has that Photoshop doesn't have.There are many good editing features in Picasa. The exercise in 'Alphabetphotography' collages was fun . What I was really impressed by, was the export feature that enables us to reduce image size. It's terrific that you can e-mail from this site. I loved the on-screen demonstrations that Holly gave. They were very informative. I am sure that I will use Picasa in the future.

All About Picasa - link to
Picasa

Screen Shots

Screen Shots is a very useful tool. I have been using this function regularly for a few years now. And resizing the images in Paint is so easy. Holly's in-class demonstrations on the computer guided us through the process and were very helpful. I have picked up some very good additional tips that I will use.
The video below about 'ScreenGrab' is worth watching.