Prezi in the (online) classroom

I went to a prezi workshop that is part of UofI Library "Savy Researcher Workshops".   Since I have already created some prezi's I did not learn that many new things about how to use Prezi but I was again reminded of some interesting ideas.

1. Powerpoint was created to be used using a static projector - yet we now use the internet which is not static at all.  Check out this prezi for an explanation of this concept.
2. Prezis allow you to show how an idea is developed.  You hardly ever think of an idea in a linear fashion so why should you necessarily always be limited by this linearity in your presentations?
3. In an online course presenting information to students in a linear fashion may limit the students.  If you use a prezi (together with a "hand-out") the student is free to explore the content in a way that is mot meaningful to them.  Skipping over things that are clear to them while spending more time on things they are not too familiar with.  Of course, you can do that with any online content, but a Prezi is build around this concept, it lends itself to individual experience building.  The student feels more in charge of her own learning.
4. Prezi's are a great tool for collaborative work.  Even for young learners.  (This last link to a video also points out why using background music on a video that includes people talking is hardly ever a good idea!).
5. So on the one hand Prezi is great for free-flowing creative thought, but on the other hand Prezi is also absolutely awesome when you make it fit inside of an overarching concept.  The best way to show you what I mean by that is for you to check out these two Prezis.
Playing to learn or Future proof your education.

SIB-online Team members: when signing up for a prezi account make sure you sign up for an Education account (still free but more storage space).  And let me know if you want a lesson on how to use Prezi, no need to attend a workshop, the tool is pretty intuitive, but there are a few things I have learned that will make your life easier.  The help features on prezi are also very good.

Happy Zooming!

M