Power Point is not evil

Recently, we were given instructions on how to use Excel for transferring data from an existing database to Excel spreadsheets. The Power point presentation used by the presenter had sound effects and graphics that included arrows, drum rolls and applause. I found it very helpful, especially when dealing with tiny boxes, letters and numbers. People were engaged in learning some new applications and the added humor broke the monotony nicely.
One of the most important things to know is that Power point is only a tool, which should be used as such to deliver the message intended by the person creating it.

ESL

My first question involving ESL was, "What is Literacy Volunteers?" I was given a brief answer by the desk attendant at the local YMCA, where I had been going to work out. "They need a new director, if you're interested", she said. "What would I have to do to apply?" I asked. "Just fill out the application form and send your resume. You can start on Monday", was the surprising answer. Little did I know what an adventure I was about to take. It was around the time of 9-11 -00, when every person of Arab descent was suspected to be a terrorist, that my first student, Mohammed, a native of Bangladesh ,with very little English, came to the office of Literacy Volunteers, seeking English language instruction. My attempt to teach him was rather intuitive and not at all orthodox, but he was able to learn quickly. Everything I did as Director was done by trial and error. Only a few people helped me, and it was very difficult . Some of the prospective students were from the U.S., with difficulties learning to read. We had to train tutors to be able to function as a volunteer organization. Therefore, I needed to be trained as a trainer. I took an online course to achieve this, and learned by doing. There was a database installed on the literacy office computer for tracking thr pairs of student-tutors who worked on learning English as a second language or on basic skills, such as writing a check. I had to meet with a Board of Directors, mail requests for donations, promote our organization, and at the same time, support the tutors and students through meetings, phone calls and assessments. Now when I look back, it was an incredible learning experience with next-to-nothing in financial rewards, but enormous benefits in terms of character-buliding, use of new technology and networking. I learned what it means to run a non-profit organization with little or no assistance. Plus, I discovered many things about myself and about the world. It was the quintessential "inquiry-based learning experience". Now I understand what English as a Second Language (ESL) means!

Power Point

After reading about differing views about Power Point in Education, I have decided that Power Point can be used creatively to do great things. On the other hand, it can be used lazily to block high level thinking. Some ideas for Power Point for ELL's are really useful because of the user-friendly format it offers them. They can produce language in a way that is non-threatening and that gives instant results that are impressive. The consistency of Power Point is comforting and lowers the affective filter. Adding sound and animation can also be interesting. We have all experienced mind-numbing Power Point presentations, read by the presenter, with very minimal imagination. This is similar to "Web Sites That Suck" - something to avoid.