EDU 210
Web 2.0: Tools in the Classroom
Sketchup
http://www.sketchup.com/
Sketchup is a 3-D modelling software that enables the user to create and visualize there ideas.
Educational Use
This particular piece of software fits in really well with the CTS curriculum. It can be used by students to create, design, and layout their projects. It can then be used in the form of designing challenges or creating blueprints for them to use in the future. It is a versitile tool that can help the students express their creativity.
In the Classroom
Sketchup can help to overcome challenges for students by giving them an oppurtunity to be creative and come up with designs and plans. This is can be done even if the student is struggling with writing and drawing.
Age Requirements
There is no minimum age to use the service.
Instructables
www.instructables.com
Instructables is a website that allows people to post and share step by step tutorials on any type of project. These tutorials include written instructions, pictures and videos.
Educational Use
This is a great tool that can be used very effectivly in the CTS classroom. It is very easy for many types of learners to understand and follow. It appeals to the visual, audio, and written. It can be used by the students to research and come up with project ideas, modify existing projects, and even create and share their own tutorials.
In the Classroom
Instructables is a great way of overcoming obstucles in the classroom. It is great because even if students are struggling with reading, there are visual aids as well as videos. As well it has such a wide variety of content it is good for all skill levels and capabilities.
Age Requirements
This website requires no registration and therefore there is no minimum age to use the service.
Blogger
www.blogger.com
Blogger is a google based blogging platform. It allows people to create and write their blog on the topic of their choosing.
Educational Use
Blogger can be used in the classroom in many ways. It can be used as a spot for students to create a documented account of a project as they work through it. They can document what they learnt, problems solved, etc. Another use could be to keep an ongoing journal as a place to express what they are learning. As well its a great place to provide feedback and self reflection.
In the Classroom
This tool is great for overcoming barriers in the classroom. This tool does that by allowing students who may be uncomfortable expressing themselves verbally to do it in a creative and non verbal manner.
Age Requirements
In order to use Blogger you need a google account. The age requirement is 13