Web 2.0 Tools

So, summertime is in full swing, which means that now is the time to be doing all of those outside upkeep and repair jobs that you can't do when the wind chill is -10 degrees ("F" or "C" doesn't matter because too cold is, well, too cold). And of course, in order to do those tasks, you need to have the right tools. Naturally, having a Lowes or Home Depot close by doesn't hurt, but you get the idea. I was doing some of that fix-up/clean-up type of work and, since it isn't exactly rocket science, my brain decided to take a small journey while my hands stayed occupied.

The path led to this: tools, tools, tools. So what's the point? Well, educational technology is all about using tools. Some tools are better than others, some have one single applications, others have several. There are also multiple tools to do the same sorts of tasks (which means you have to decide which one you want to use, rather like having to choose between a Makita and a DeWalt). Here are some of the tools that I've decided to keep realily available in my educational technology toolbox: Audacity (podcasting), Blogger (social networking), Skype (internet phone & video communication), and Voicethread (internet presentations). Here are the websites:

Audacity: http://audacity.sourceforge.net/
Blogger: http://www.blogger.com/
Skype: http://www.skype.com/
Voicethead: http://www.voicethread/

Unfortunately, some tools wear out or lose their usefulness, like Ning (social networks). I used to set up Ning networks for all of my classes. It was a great way to have students continue the discussion outside of class. They could post questions and comments; and I could post supplementary information. Formerly a free site, Ning now comes with fees. Sigh! Still, if you want to take a look, here's the link:

Ning: http://www.ning.com/

On a brighter note, the Learning Management Systems I am using at the two Universities where I teach handle the same capabilities, so no real loss there. In fact, both "Angel" and "Blackboard" have more features to choose, so come to think of it, I'm actually ahead on that score.