Please introduce yourself, and your field in education!

My name is Mark Pennington and I am a science teacher from the western suburbs of Chicago. I have over the course of 3 decades taught Biology, AP Biology, Genetics, Biotechnology, Chemistry, AP Chemistry, Earth Science, and Introduction to Physical Science at Waubonise Valley High School (1979 -1997).  I also was the Instructional Technology Coordinator at Neuqua Valley High School (1997-2001), and the Assistant Principal for Instruction and Technology, Building Operations, and Support Services at Hinsdale South High School (2001- 2009) and currently teach chemistry classes at Hinsdale South.

How did you first hear about Prezi? 

I have always been an early adopter of technology in what ever domains I am engaged in ... during my 4 year tenure at Neuqua Valley High School I was introduced to Prezi by a colleague and member of my Professional Learning Network (PLN) from an adjacent district. 

What were your first experiences when you started to use Prezi yourself?

I was fascinated with it immediately and began using it in the professional development I provided for faculty at Neuqua Valley.

How did your students react to your first prezi?

My students originally were adult participants in professional development experiences I developed and it mesmerized them and to some degree hypnotized them as I worked through my zeal for extreme movement.

How does Prezi help in your work?

I think the thinking behind the creation of the Prezi is the  most valuable aspect I plan with the end in mind... In development I clarify:

• the goals (ojectives) 
• the content (text - less is more)
• the supports (images, videos, links, etc.)

the connects - The Prezi Map 

• design 
• appropriate
• flow of information 
• viewer comfort

All of this creates the mental landscape and strategy in which I will use the Prezi with my audience and provide access for them long after I have left.

Anything you might recommend to teachers getting started with Prezi?

• Play, Play, Play
• Share ... Share...Share
• Storyboard
• Plan with the End in Mind (reverse engineer)