Jing Information

1. Name of the Tool:  Jing

2. URL of the Tool:  http://www.techsmith.com/jing/

3. Please select the one, primary category for this tool: Communication Tool, Collaboration Tool, Productivity Tool, Creativity Tool, Critical Thinking/Problem-Solving Tool, Reflection Tool, Feedback Tool, Networking/Social Tool, Presentation Tool.:  Communication Tool

4. Please describe this tool in your own words in about 250 words. 
Jing is a multi-use program with a primary function to communicate information between individuals.  Jing allows you to capture information and make comments (verbal and non-verbal).  The program can be used for collaboration, add voice to presentations, comment on students work, give directions and a variety of other uses.  The key function for school use would be to communicate information using your voice to cover key concepts.  You can take a PowerPoint and add voice so that the notes on the PowerPoint have greater explanation and are coordinated with the slide.  A great tool to also create staff development that is informative in nature and coupled with Moodle creates on-line training sessions.

5. What do you need to know before using this tool? (What skills do you need to have?)
You need to have basic concepts of how to create screen shots as well as basic concepts of an editing program.

6. What resources or equipment do you need to have before using this tool? 
The most helpful resource is a microphone of some type.  Nothing elaborate or expensive and some computers have the feature built in.  I found it easier to have a headset with microphone for ease and clarity.  You also have to purchase the program or get the free demo version that works great but has a limit on the length of the clip but you can do multiple clips related to the same topic.

7. Please describe your experience using this tool. Did it accomplish what you expected? What are the advantages or disadvantages of using this tool in a teaching environment? Would you use this tool again or recommend it to others? (about 250 words).
I created a STAAR Basic Training in Jing that allowed me to discuss how the EOC’s would work and the grades needed.  I created it in Powerpoint and then did screen shots of the slides and added voice for explanation.  I posted the training in Moodle to document completion of the training.  Teachers loved it and a great use of time and energy.

8. On a scale of 0 to 5, how would rate this tool overall for use in education (0 being worst and 5 being best)?
I would say that this program is a 5 for use in education.  Lessons can be posted with the teacher explanation.

Introduction

Mark Murrell currently serves as principal of The Woodlands College Park High School.  He has been working as an educator since 1991 and in the Conroe Independent School District since 1994.  Mr. Murrell earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics from Stephen F. Austin State University.  He holds a Masters of Education in Administration from Sam Houston State University.  Mark began his career in Texas City as a mathematics teacher and coach.  After 3 years in Texas City, he moved to the Conroe area in 1994 where he began to work for Conroe ISD at McCullough High School.  After serving as a mathematics teacher and coach for 2 years at McCullough, he transferred to Knox Junior High School as an assistant principal.  Mr. Murrell served as assistant principal for two and a half years before being name interim principal and ultimately principal.  He served as principal of Knox JHS until 2003 when he was named the principal of The Woodlands High School-McCullough Campus.  Mark served as principal for two years.  He was named principal of The Woodlands College Park High School in February of 2004 which opened in 2005.  Mark is married to Tina and they have three boys Todd, Blake, and Mark Alan.