There is new software available, FOR FREE (right now) that allows you to create stunning multimedia presentations.  Prezi is a web-based software that builds upon the ideas introduced years ago by Microsoft PowerPoint.  Prezi does not limit users to “slides”; rather, it gives users a 3-dimensional canvas in which to create an organic flow of ideas.  Prezi is hard to explain in words, so please click here to view a Prezi Presentation or two.  Basically Prezi allows you to zoom in and out of your screen, revealing different concepts, images and themes.  You can start with the word “Ohio”, then hide information about The Ohio State University inside the “O”.  Then you can zoom into the “O” and read what’s there; then zoom out and over to the “h” for an explanation of Ohio politics.  Prezi also allows you to store your presentations online, so no forgotten reports, lost flash drive, or any other excuses when student work comes due.

I created a free account (free for students and teaches), and have begun to play with this extensive software.  It is proving difficult for me to un-program my PowerPoint ways and become a little more creative.  Garth and I have discussed using Prezi for our next presentation.  The majority of my students have started using Prezi in their technology classes.  It is very impressive and the kids are much more engaged than if they were creating presentations using PowerPoint.  Prezi is much more free-flowing and students have created some beautiful presentations.  I am going to have some of my students create Prezi presentations over the course of the next two weeks as we look at the enduring impacts of the ancient world.  I will post in the comment section of this blog with some links when students finish their work.

-Mike