Module 7: Web 2.0 Resources for Educators
Created By: J. Wolff
Table of Contents
1. Fit Brains
2. Curriculumbits
3. HaringKids
1. Fitbrains:
http://www.fitbrains.com/science/
Fit Brains allow users to challenge and train their brain in order to optimize crucial brain skills such as memory, language, and problem-solving. Fit Brains asserts that their games are personalized and customized to meet the needs of individual users. Fit Brains could be used as a fun tool to engage and introduce students to online learning practices. Another positive of this tool is that it helps one to strive for their personal best (i.e. compete with themselves), rather than focusing on the performance of their classmates.This tool is an online,multimedia training resource that works to improve numerous executive functioning skills. For example, if a student is having a hard time focusing on information that is presented, this tool may be able to help them improve their focus. There is no required age of users, although this Web 2.0 tool is often employed by those 20+. As a secondary teacher, I believe that there is room for a service such as this in my classroom; it appears to be a fun, proactive program that lends to the growth of critical brain skills.
2. Curriculumbits:
http://www.curriculumbits.com/
This tool provides online access to interactive online e-learning teaching resources. Curriculumbits would be a good resource to utilize to emphasize, or reinforce, Alberta’s curriculum (both general and specific outcomes). Due to the multimedia nature of this resource, Curriculumbits is able to help differentiate the process (i.e. how students learn the content) of learning. There is no required age of users, although it is recommended that the content students explore on this site meets them where they are at (i.e. the content teachers encourage students to use should match their age-level and educational needs).
3. HaringKids:
http://www.haringkids.com/
HaringKids is a Web 2.0 resource that allows students, teachers, and parents alike to create web-based art graphics. This website also provides teachers with explorative lesson plans for all ages (with a little modification and teacher discretion). HaringKids could be used to differentiate product, according to students readiness, interest, and learning styles. HaringKids allows products to be further differentiated, thus contributing to students educational success. It is a fun, engaging, creative, and artistic resource that reminds teachers that a dichotomy does not have to exist between the science and the arts. There is absolutely no age requirement for HaringKids; it can be used by anyone, at any age.