Exploring New Tools

I explored and opened accounts in several Web 2.0 tools this week. I must say that I am enjoying this discovery learning and hope that I can go back and apply these to the online classroom and in instructional design projects as appropriate. Brief comments on each tool follows:

Flipboard (www.flipboard.com) is a tool that allows the aggregation of articles, photos, music and video created in many different Web 2.0 tools. It will then allow the organization of selected aggregates into “magazines” that can be kept private or shared with other user groups. The tool is highly visible and easy to use.

Edmodo (www.edmodo.com) is a classroom management tool where assignments, quizzes, calendars and other resources can be posted for student access. It can be used as a communications tool among the classroom network. Students can be invited into the group and can interact both with the instructor and other students. The tool is free and appears to have a high level of support through the discussion board available to instructors.

Diigo (www.diigo.com) is a social bookmarking site that allows the formation of groups. Members of the group can contribute, comment, highlight and interact regarding the posts. I have used another bookmarking tool in my online classes that allows for grouping and organization into folders. However, it does not allow for the interaction and engagement Diigo allows. I like this form of bookmarking because it leads to interaction and collaboration on key topics.

Flickr (www.flickr.com) is a photo sharing site. I have been a user of Flickr for some time, but have not been a producer. After exploring the site, I see how user groups or classes can be associated and learning can be enhanced using this tool to support visual learning styles. Students can also document progress in real world assignments and share findings with other members of the group.

YouTube (www.yourtube.com) is a video sharing site. Like Flickr, I have been a user of YouTube and incorporated video clips into my online classes. The site is easy to navigate, easy to search and easy to link to specific video clips. Blackboard LMS allows for creation of YouTube mashups within assignments so activities, questions or short quizzes could be associated with the video clip. I find YouTube to be very advantageous in helping provide short demonstrations or illustrations of lesson concepts. I have not produced content because there is already so much previously created content, it is possible not to have to recreate.

Voicethread (www.voicethread.com) allows for the creation and sharing of audio materials supported by visuals. Users can interact by leaving audio comments with a phone, webcam or other devices. I reviewed the Voicethread that Vanessa created in her class blog and was very impressed. I see where this tool could be used to provide instructional support to aid in understanding of a concept, provide feedback to students on projects or assignments and take interactive communications to a more meaningful level. I read a bit about the use Voicethread on their website and like the way it can be integrated into commonly used learning management systems. However, this is one tool I think I am going to have to spend a bit of time with to feel comfortable using.