Scratch is a Web 2.0 tool designed by MIT to help students learn the basics of computer programming and code. It can be found at scratch.mit.edu and could serve a number of functions. Firstly, it could be used in the classroom to give students another choice in how to express their knowledge of the content. It can be used to create digital stories and even videos that showcase what they have learned. Scratch would also fall into place as redefinition on the SAMR model. With this tool we can create lessons and the students can create and share their own ideas in a way that would not have been possible even 10 years ago thanks to the rapid growth in the use of personal devices and online connectivity.
This tool can be helpful in removing barriers for students by allowing those who are shy in front of the class to record their voices for presentations using the recording feature or allow those who learn kinesthetically to have the hands on tools they need to show of their knowledge without being restricted by their weaknesses.
According to their terms of use (http://scratch.mit.edu/terms_of_use/) there is no minimum age to use the tool. You can access without registering for an account but in registering you can share videos with other users. The simple setup of Scratch makes it easy to use for any user but I would only use it starting at a preteen level because of how confusing it can be to use some of the features.
