# data[].attributes.body
However, we need to remember that media persuasion didn’t begin with new media. For many years, in language arts classes throughout the world, children have been taught how to persuade with words. In fact, one of the hallmarks of the literate person is being able to write a persuasive essay that convinces readers of a particular point of view using the techniques of effective writing.

Ohler, Jason B. (2013-03-26). Digital Storytelling in the Classroom: New Media Pathways to Literacy, Learning, and Creativity (p. 227). SAGE Publications. Kindle Edition.

For those of us who remember the TESOL Methods class, this reminds me of the Common Core writing standards. I was very surprised at first to see such an emphasis on persuasive writing, but I’m beginning to understand how important it can be for learning. Persuasion is a skill, just like writing, and combining them with each other can be very difficult to teach. Ohler points out that Digital storytelling can help with this. Speaking persuasively can seem less daunting, and visual aids can help greatly. Allowing students to become familiar with academic persuasion in this way can ease the transition into effective persuasive writing down the road.

Does anyone else remember cute little infographs from school explaining persuasive writing? I think this is one of the most difficult types of writing to master, especially in a second language.- Julia

# data[].attributes.body
When I am looking for hardware or software, I consult reviews I find on the Internet. I automatically turn to YouTube these days, where I often find hands-on reviews, demonstrations, and comparisons. I find these immensely helpful.

Ohler, Jason B. (2013-03-26). Digital Storytelling in the Classroom: New Media Pathways to Literacy, Learning, and Creativity (p. 213). SAGE Publications. Kindle Edition.

This is not exactly the profound sort of padlet quote we have been posting, but it was very important to me. I picked up a book at the store yesterday on Vietnam, and almost bought it for my upcoming trip. That is, until I remembered that it was 2015 and I had UNLIMITED resources online with up-to-date restaurant and attraction reviews. It is the same for technology and I think as a teacher, I need to remember this. We have a great opportunity to almost never make a poor purchase thanks to sharing between consumers. My favorite part is that these reviews are often done by “regular” people as opposed to tech wizards. Below is a video comparing two common presentation softwares that we’ll often use. -Julia

# data[].attributes.body
Choose wisely

# data[].attributes.body
One way to evaluate