THING #7

I’ve always been interested in photography and as the Intel representative in the Seal Teams I was the photographer for my platoon.  I never received any formal training; however, on the ship we had a small area we turned into a dark room.  The cameras we used were 35mm black and white and for the first time I discovered the enjoyment and creative nature of photographs and developing them.  So, exploring these applications are just as exciting.

I had fun with Flickr.  I already had an account; however, I hadn’t used it in months and it had been deactivated.  I’ve always enjoyed photography and found it difficult to maintain a library large enough for all my favorite photos.  After reestablishing the connection with Flickr, I tried to upload all of the photos on my phone.  However, I had so many, Flickr stopped me at 300MB.  That is their monthly limit upload for the free account.  I also discovered my brother living in Singapore has a Flickr account.  After establishing my account, I went and looked at all of his photos.

As for using Flickr in the classroom, I guess the old cliché is applicable; “a picture is worth 1000 words.”  If a teacher were to spend some time collecting useful imagery, I’m sure the students wouldn’t mind a break from the standard lecture on a chalkboard.  Being that children often learn best visually, this could be a good medium to create discussion.  Through the use of photos, it is possible to take the students on a cultural journey without ever leaving the classroom.  Especially important for lower socioeconomic students, who may have never been outside their hometown. 

Oh yeah, the picture above.  That is my famous "Applewood and Coffee Smoked Chicken."  It is delicious!