WEB 2.0 TOOLS in UDL
An exploration of three different web tools and their use in UDL
Table of Contents
Storybird.......................................................................3
Pocket..........................................................................4
Flashcard Machine.......................................................5
This webtool can be accessed at this website: http://storybird.com/
It features a large selection of ebooks that include old favourites and new texts. Also, it provides templates to write stories on as well as the ability to add visual interest to a book by choosing images from a large selection.
This is a very helpful tool to use in the classroom because it gives English students who may not be comfortable with drawing or art the opportunity to add visuals to their written composition without having to draw.
I would recommend this tool be used for junior high to high school students because it does require some pre-knowledge of computers and web tools, and is quite similar to PowerPoint layouts.
There do not seem to be any age restrictions on signing up. Also it is free and allows all students to access it, but older students would be able to get the most out of it.
The app "Pocket" can be accessed through this website.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ideashower.readitlater.pro&hl=en
Pocket is a free iphone/ipad app that allows you to save articles, videos, images, etc to one place without need for internet connection or email. It also connects to other apps to find resources then transfer them to pocket.
Teachers can use this app by having the students find certain resources for readings, and asking them to store on this app so that they are easily accessible for next class.
This app is very beneficial for use in the classroom because it takes students who can't organize resources well into consideration. Since some students have trouble remembering where they put assignments or readings for class, this tool breaks down that barrier by giving students one place to store their resources and make it easier to find and access them.
I would recommend this app for students in grades 9-12 because it requires some knowledge of downloading, wifi connections, and a variety of other web tools in order to connect to them to find resources.
There are no age restrictions on signing up, but the app would best serve older students who have experience with a variety of web tools and using apps for practical purposes.
Flashcard Machine is a free webtool that can be accessed here: http://www.flashcardmachine.com/flashcards/flashcards.cgi
It provides online flashcards for every grade level from K-12 in any core subject in a variety of topics for each.
Teachers can use this student to give students assignments, quizzes, or review. Students who have trouble writing with material tools such as pencil and paper, or students who do not enjoy or have the patience to create their own flashcards do not have to because this tool creates them.
Although I would recommend this tool for grades K-12 because it provides a large variety of subjects and topics for all grade levels, and because it is so easy to navigate, the age restriction on creating an account according to the terms of use is 13 and older, so only students of this age may access the tool.