Searching for Content

Many teachers have asked me how to search for virtual field trip content on the web. Because many people are already researching content and creating databases as resources in this area, I would strongly recommend starting with some of the better listings. Most offer searches by content, grade level, subject, cost, time, IP only, etc. Some even include ratings from previous participants or anecdotal reviews of the provider or content.

Two of my favorite sites for searching are:

1. http://www.twice.cc/fieldtrips.html
2. http://www.cilc.org/content.aspx

Both of these search tools are free to use and maintained by well recognized education professionals. I've also cross-posted this information on the ACELINK website at www.acelink.org.

Virtual Scientist Program

The Vanderbilt Center for Science Outreach has a Virtual Scientist in the Classroom videoconference topic series for K12 classes.

The programs are free and ACELINK will be previewing the content on September 22 so we can give an evaluation of this resource. As with any of these programs, it is critical to test the IP connections BEFORE the conference. You'll need to plan at least one week in advance for these tests, and it may take some network staff involvement the first few times. Stay tuned for the review, or check out their content on the sites below.

Want your students to understand science, develop critical thinking skills, and realize the true meaning of science exploration? Then why not communicate with the scientist? Have your students learn from research scientists, science faculty, physicians, graduate and medical students who devote themselves to scientific and medical exploration and advancement. This year they will offer access to the research laboratory to see where it all happens, debate the ethics of genetic screening, reach for the stars with astronomers from their observatory, get an up-close view of a diseased human heart, talk to thinking robots, brainstorm with Albert Einstein and much more.

Cost: FREE

Connection: IP via Vanderbilt bridge

Registrations at http://www.vanderbilt.edu/cso/vcsched.php OR

http://www.vanderbilt.edu/cso/vidcon.php for more general information.

Additions will be made regularly so stay current and join our email list at http://www.vanderbilt.edu/cso/emaillist.php.

Tandberg Tech Support

I've learned a very important lesson this week during two-way video testing. There are two VERY DIFFERENT ways to get technical support on Tandberg CODEC equipment. The difference comes from the provider of your service contract for the equipment. If your Tandberg equipment was purchased through Verizon, then you can call Tandberg support at 866-826-3237 for 24x7 assistance. When you call, you will need your unit's serial number, which can be found on a sticker on the bottom of the unit.

If your equipment was purchased through Visitec (Markey's, Video Images, etc.) then you must call Visitec technical support at 630-762-0300, ext. 102. Todd Curry is the main support person you'll talk to. Don't forget to have your Tandberg serial number when you call for help.

We are also very fortunate to have John Humphrey, Region 8, certified in Tandberg equipment. He attended the technical certification course this summer, and is very willing to help with questions/problems. He can be reached at Region 8, and the number is 260-439-8800.