The concept of a slide show presentation has been around for a while now and has been put to heavy use in both academic and professional settings. Microsoft Powerpoint has been the leader in this technology for years until recently. Other software has emerged that is both free and just as powerful if not greater than what Powerpoint can offer. The most notable software is Keynote, Prezi, and Google Presentation. I have not had any interaction with Keynote but I have put some time into both Prezi and Google Presentation. A presentation for both of these formats will be linked at the bottom of the blog.
Powerpoint has all the bells and whistles that you could want for a slide show presentation, however, Prezi has changed the slide show from slide to slide into a one slide that is so big it appears to have multiple slides within it creating an incredibly unique feel. If used correctly it keeps audiences more entertained and able to focus on the presentation since they are amused or amazed by the new coat of paint it seems to breathe into the slide show concept.
Google Presentation is what I would consider to be a Powerpoint copy with less bells and whistles. While they have integrated the program with Google's search feature it is only a minor addition that is not incredibly needed but useful none-the-less. All of the standard features that slide show presentations are known for are implemented and everything that Google Drive is known for is also added in which creates a wonderful work environment. Another plus to Google Presentations is that the software exists within your browser window. There is no need to install anything so no matter what computer you are on you will always be able to access and edit your work.
The Common Core State Standards begin to require that students "Make strategic use of digital media and visual displays of data to express information and enhance understand of presentations" as early as 5th grade. Google Presentation is accessible at no cost for all students and is simple enough for a 5th grader to add a few pictures and textual information to increase the strength of their presentation. In later grades students are required to use technology and the Internet to further their presentations and writing abilities. With Google's search feature built into their online software this makes the process even easier without having to have multiple windows open. Google Drive allows the students to be able to share documents with other students as well as their teachers for proof reading, editing, and easier submission. All of which are required by the Common Core.
While Google Presentation does not have every single feature that other slide show software has it does offer everything that a student will need for free and in a open setting to use anywhere.
Prezi Presentation
http://goo.gl/HxP56
Google Presentation
http://goo.gl/4vQrQ
Excellent!
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