Windows Virus Sneaks onto Some Apple iPods

In mid October, Apple Computer warned that some of its latest iPods were shipped with a Windows virus.  Apple said that a very small number of video iPods made after September 12 included the RavMonE virus.  At the time it had only seen a limited number of these reports of the problem.  This problem did not affect other models of the iPod nor did it affect Macs.  The virus was traced to a particular Windows machine in the manufacturing lines of a contract manufacturer that builds the iPods for Apple.  The name of the maker was not released.  Apple said that computers using a current antivirus software and with default settings should detect and remove RavMonE, as it is an identified virus.  Video iPods that are now being made are virus-free according to Apple. 

For more information on this article, visit http://news.zdnet.com/2102-1009_22-6126804.html

Skype and Hot Recorder

Skype is downloadable software that allows users to call landline and mobile phones, over their computers.  This works a little like an instant messenger, with the capability of talking to up to 100 people at a time, and also it allows users to save conversations.  Skype works on computers with the following operating systems: Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, and Pocket PCs.  With Skype you can also transfer chats, calls, and files between computers.  With a few additional downloads, Skype has a lot more to offer.  For instance, with SkypeOut, users can call landlines for a small fee and then transfer these calls to home or cell phones.  Another download, SkypeVoicemail, allows someone to talk to a user when the user is currently unavailable. 

To learn more about Skype or to download Skype for free, please visit:
http://www.skype.com/download/

Hot Recorder allows users to record conversations when using Skype.  This program costs twenty dollars.  Learn more at:
http://www.skype.com/download/

These two programs would work great when trying to create a Podcast.  It allows people to conduct interviews over the phone, record the interviews, and then download them into iTunes.  Skype also allows listeners of the program to call the creator of the Podcast.  To get more information on these two programs read the following article:
http://www.llrx.com/columns/tao4.htm

Propaganda

Propaganda is a computer software program that allows users to create audio shows that sound professional.  This program allows users to capture the content of their Podcasts, whether it is music, voice recording, or sound effects.  Then Propaganda lets the user import clips, and store clips.  The clips can then be organized into a show later.  To create a show Propaganda allows users to drag and drop clips in the order that they would like them to be heard.  Users can change the content of a show, and even edit individual clips.  Propaganda also has built in sound effects, or users can add their own music and jingles, to create a smoother show.  Once all the content has been created the user can simply save the show as an mp3, and it is ready to be broadcasted.  This software program costs $49.95.

For more information visit:    
http://www.makepropaganda.com/products.html

iPods and Special Education

Both educators and techies alike are buzzing about using iPods beyond playing music, and integrating them into the classroom. The iPod has made a name for itself as a popular and convenient way to listen to music portably, using the capabilities of the iPod in the classroom can make a big difference in the education our special needs students receive. Instead of using an iPod to listen to music or to watch the latest music video, the iPod has earned an equally important position in the education field.

In the past, children who required help with things like taking tests would be taken to a separate classroom, and a paraprofessional would read the test questions to those students out loud. One problem that would occur often is that some students would need to hear the questions more than one time, while the rest of the students were ready to go on to the next question. These students can now get that help from an iPod.

The iPod provides an audio narration of the test questions and the iPod video screen also displays the text as it is being read. This allows students with a learning disability to work more independently, allowing them to work productively and have a higher self-esteem.

Read more...

The IDEE 

The IDEE is a new computer/cell phone/media handheld device.  This fully portable device is the top of the like, and is the ultimate in computing and communication. The IDEE runs the Windows CP operating system, and functions as a normal sized computer. It is a dockable device which gives it the capability to work with a mouse, keyboard, and to store its information externally. It does not use much battery to run, and has both phone keys and a large keypad. It also has a high-resolution touch screen. In addition to functioning as a cell phone, the IDEE is a portable mp3 player and much more. The device plays mp3 audio files as well as video. The IDEE not only allows users to take pictures and capture video, but also offers them the ability to edit whatever footage is shot. The IDEE is available in 4 versions: full-feature, standard, mini, and Pro/ruggedized versions.

For Additional information visit:
http://audiovideo.consumerelectronicsnet.com/articles/
viewarticle.jsp?id=68709

iPods in the Classroom
This website explains how iPods can be used in the classroom. It explains how an iPod can be an effective learning tool. It also explains how students can use iLife to create slideshows, sound projects, and movies, and then transfer them to the television. The website also explains how students can use their iPods for pictures, notes, and scheduling. There are also links on the site for lesson plans using iPods and additional iPod resources.
http://www.apple.com/au/education/ipod/

iPod in Education
This website is full of different articles about how schools are using iPods in the classroom. There are lists of different links, and a short synopsis about what each article is about. There are examples of iPods being used in school from elementary to college.
http://www.addysg.org.uk/ipodined/news.php

Skype + Podcast Recorder = SkypeCasters
This website is about SkypeCasting. SkypeCasting allows users to create good quality sound recordings. The website explains how people can use Skype to record information and then create a Podcast. The site also has directions that people can follow to record audio and create a Podcast.
http://www.henshall.com/blog/archives/001056.html

Mobile Magazine
This website contains a list of technology related articles. Most of the stories are about emerging technology, but some of them are simply interesting articles.
http://www.mobilemag.com/