SnapJet

     The SnapJet is a small device that scans a photo displayed on your smartphone's screen, and reproduces it on Polaroid or Fuji film. There are already photo printers that work with smartphones but they are typically hard-wired to the phone or synced using Bluetooth. However, the SnapJet requires no plugging, pairing, or apps. You simply place any make or model of phone face-down on its optical polymer scanning surface, press a button, and wait for the print to come out. The battery is charged using a USB port. The SnapJet's creators are raising production funds for the device. A pledge of $99 US Dollars will get you one and when/if they're ready to go, the retail price is planned to be $149.

Wiki Dissection JW

     1. What is the purpose of this Wiki?
The purpose of this Wiki is to explain disruptive technology in the classroom and give different examples of it. TheWiki focused on looking for and discussing disruptive innovations that are occurring in education and in the classroom.

     2. When was the last post?
The last post was published on November 7th of 2007.

     3. How was this Wiki created?
This Wiki was created on k12wiki.com

     4. What would you add to it?
Distributed technology innovation in the classroom information.

     5. What did you learn from it?
I learned that disruptive technologies drastically change the way that the people who use them connect, engage, and relate with the world and transfrom society.

     6. If you had to create a Wiki with a team, what would be the specific topic(s)?
If I had to make a Wiki, it would be about an upcoming trip. My friends would add on what they have and what we need to bring. It would be easy to use and lots of fun.

     7. How can Wikis be used in the classroom or in education?
Yes, because students can add information to a certain topc and teachers can see it will be on one big platform.

Touch-Free Smartphone

     Sesame is a system designed specifically for users with only limited or no use of their hands. The device pairs head tracking software with some familiar hardware with the goal of bringing smartphone functionality to those who would otherwise be unable to make use of it. The device comes pre-loaded with software that allows for touch-free functionality right out of the box. It uses a mixture of voice and gesture recognition for control, has been designed with accessibility in mind, and is even simple enough for children to use.

Web 2.0: Wiki Research

     1. How can a wiki be used in a current class on your schedule (not this course)? Pick a class and be specific how the class could create and use a Wiki on a regular basis (tip: Use the Internet, here is a good source).

   A class that is currently on my schedule that can use a Wiki is my history class. Mr. Minnocci could create a Wiki and require all of his students in his Period II World History Honors class to use it on a regular basis. The Wiki would help all of the students collaborate with their notes on the subject or even to simply study for upcoming tests and quizzes. Also, a class could work together to perfect the Wiki. 

     2. What are the benefits of using a Wiki in class?

   Using a Wiki in class can benefit the students and teacher both. The students are able to collaborate and the teacher can easily check all of the work at once. Everyone is able to see the same information and correct any false statements that the Wiki contains.
  
     3. How can we create a Wiki in this class, what would we contribute to it, and how would we utilize it on an on-going basis?
   
   In this class, we can create a Wiki and contribute to it by putting our blog posts up there. We can use it to see what everyone in the class is putting up and prevent repeated articles. We can help each other and Mr. Porfido can easily see what everyone is doing and grade it easily.

     4. What experience do you have using or creating Wikis?

   I have no experience using and/or creating Wikis as I have never used or created one or been required to.

This Weekend

     This past weekend, I had a very interesting four days off. Thursday, I had my final soccer practice of the season. The following day we had our last game of States and unfortunately lost to Glen Ridge and were elimated from the tournament. Saturday, I was able to take a much needed full day off from everything and sat home doing nothing and just relaxed. Finally on Sunday, I drove to church with my mother. It was the first time that I drove our 2004 Jeep Cherokee, which will be my car when I get my license. Later, my friend dyed the roots of my hair after I spent an hour convincing my mom to let me. I purchased my hair dye at Sally Beauty.

Poland (2) vs. Germany (0) International Friendly Soccer Match