In this module, you will be introduced to the resources and information available on Promethean Planet, the support site for Promethean hardware and software. If you completed earlier modules in this series you will have seen the site already - this is your chance to explore more deeply. If you are new to Promethean Planet, this module provides some structure for exploring a rich resource. Completion of this module is expected to take at least 15 minutes.
View Introduction:
This two-minute introduction to the Promethean Planet Web site provides an overview of various resources that may be access through the site.
Explore the Web Site:
1. Register If you are not yet a registered user, take the time to register now - it is a very quick process. Those who are attending on-site training are encouraged to use their school e-mail address when they create their account.
3. Lessons If you haven't had a chance to explore the lesson flipcharts, take a few minutes to see what's there. Select Resources/Resource Type/Lessons. Filters in the sidebar allow you to limit search terms and entering keywords in the search bar will narrow your search even further. Look for the drop down menu in the upper left corner of the results window - you can sort results.
Lessons are age and subject specific flipcharts that have been created and uploaded by Promethean Planet members. Most flipcharts can be downloaded free of charge and all can be previewed in the Web page. Those attending on-site training and are using red Netbooks, are asked to wait until they are at their classroom computer to download files. Previewing flipcharts is a great way to get a feel for the ways in which interactive components can be incorporated. Below you will find links to a few lessons that are particularly well done. You will note that they follow the design principles discussed in Module 6, utilize a variety of tools, and contain multiple opportunities for student interaction.
A wonderful feature of the Promethean Planet Web site is the ability to search for Lessons by State Standard: Resources/Search By State Standard then use drop down menus. While any good flipchart will help engage learners, alignment with district curriculum is of primary importance.
4. Resource Packs Resource Packs are downloadable files with backgrounds and images you can use in your own flipcharts. Select Resources/Resource Types/Resource Pack. As with Lessons, filters in the sidebar allow you to narrow your search and you can sort results. Seasonal as well as subject matter specific Resource Packs are available.
5. ActivTips ActivTips are a series of short how-to videos that demonstrate the use of various tools and features of the software. Select Professional Development/ActivTips. On the ActivTips page you can scroll through the list of topics and play the video right on the page. You can also click on the link to subscribe to the ActivTips podcast and get past episode of interest and have new episodes delivered to your iTunes. Take a few minutes to explore ActivTips.
6. Support
Hardware: Newest drivers are available along with technical information allowing those using ActivInspire on their personal computers to keep software up-to-date. D109 teachers, all updates for school equipment are done for you - do not download anything please.
User Guides and Docs: Many of the documents linked within these training modules can be found on Promethean Planet. They provide excellent text description and visual support for using ActivInspire. Quickstart Guides are a handy for novice users - they are brief and provide quick reference for commonly used tools.
Software: Find the newest information here and download the Personal Edition of ActivInspire for home use. Check with your school's Technology Coordinator to see if registration codes are available - this will enable you to turn your Personal Edition into the Professional Edition at no charge.