Ed Tech Picks

Camtasia Studio (TechSmith)
Camtasia Studio is a screen casting software that is very helpful for teachings wanting to record what is happening onscreen with added audio.  The software allows you certain cursor effects that you want in a screen casting software like the ability to highlight and circle text as well as change the cursor size.  The software also has the ability to do some annotations like the pixelation of text and x/y/z rotations.  This software allows for only one video track with up to 2 picture in pictures added.  The softwhttps://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=8774509515445823398#editor/target=post;postID=9174746036015251374;onPublishedMenu=posts;onClosedMenu=posts;postNum=1;src=linkare also allows for the addition of up to 3 audio tracks.  Camtasia Studio also has a basic video editor built in for most of your screencasting needs.  Camtasia is free to try but has a retail price of $299.00.  All in all Camtasia Studio is one of the best screencasting softwares on the market right now.
http://www.techsmith.com/camtasia-features.html


Gizmos (ExploreLearning)
Gizmos are interactive, online simulations for math and science education in grades 3-12. They help students develop a deep understanding of challenging concepts through inquiry and exploration. Correlated with the Common Core standards and more than 300 textbooks, Gizmos are ideal for small group work, individual exploration, and whole-class instruction using an LCD projector or interactive whiteboard. “Gizmos allow my students to have virtual ‘hands-on’ interaction with difficult science concepts. Each student can manipulate the variables, record the results, and arrive at their own conclusions,” says Leslie Leduc, retired instructional technology specialist from Manatee County, Fla.
http://www.explorelearning.com