Web 2.0 Technology Tools for Education

Web 2.0 Technology Tools for Education

Website: http://prezi.com/

Purpose: Prezi is used mainly as a presentation tool and can be described as a more upgraded and modern version of a powerpoint presentation. With Prezi, an individual can create a presentation that shows the flow of ideas which actually displays this motion while it goes from point to point. In this way, it is very engaging for the viewer.

Check out this cool Prezi on Harry Potter! http://prezi.com/rlo1rnytxw3a/?utm_campaign=share&utm_medium=copy&rc=ex0share

How can it be used in Education? Prezi is excellent for students and educators because it can replace the archaic powerpoint presentation.  Students can use Prezi for book reports, oral presentations, etc. Educators can use Prezi to explain projects, assignments and as lecture notes to provide for their students.

How does this tool remove barriers?

Multiple Means of Representation- Various types of media can be incorporated into a Prezi  including pictures, videos, audio clips, etc. In this way, Prezi removes barriers because it allows for various ways of taking in and presenting information.

Multiple Means of Expression: Students can customize their Prezi in almost any way they like. They can choose the style of their presentation, the layout, the content, etc. They can choose to be creative or to follow a layout if they are struggling with coming up with an original format.

Multiple Means of Engagement: Prezi allows for lots of motion throughout the presentation. This will help students to stay interested in the presentation that they are viewing. The customization also adds choice to how the student wants to set up their presentation. These remove the threat of distraction.

Required Age: 13+

Website: http://quizlet.com/

Purpose: Quizlet is an online tool that allows the user to create flashcards and quizzes. One can create their own quiz or they can browse through a variety of categories to see if there has already been a quiz created on their desired topic.

Test your multiplication with the following study tools! http://quizlet.com/_11z8l

How can it be used in Education? Quizlet is excellent in helping student to review for tests and exams. They can find flashcards, tests and games that have already been created for specific subjects and topics or they can create their own. This can be shared with the class as a whole, providing multiple opportunities for reviewing content.

How does this tool remove barriers?

Multiple Means of Representation- Quizlet provides a variety of study tools: flashcards (print and audio), games, multiple choice tests, written tests, etc. This removes many barriers because it is not limited to traditional print methods but rather gives students the opportunity to learn regardless of whether they have reading diffiulties, sight difficulties, hearing problems, etc.

Multiple Means of Expression: Quizlet has a variety of already created study tools so students have lots of choice on how they will learn and review content. There is also the option for students to create their own study tools, which gives them full customization possibilities and allows them to engage in the process of creating their own study materials.

Multiple Means of Engagement: Quizlet provides the option for students to choose the study method that they prefer and respond to best. It also helps them set goals as the tests shows them which areas they need improvement in and which areas they are already competent in.

Required Age: 13+, parental consent required for children under the age of 13 (access to a limited feature set and web site experience)

Website: http://storybird.com/

Purpose: Storybird is a free online tool that allows individuals to make short, art-inspired stories.

Explore this story on "7 Ways to Survive School": http://storybird.com/books/seven-ways-to-survive-school/

How can it be used in Education? Instead of asking students to create a poster, powerpoint presentation or book report, educators can have students express their creativity and content knowledge by creating a story on Storybird.

How does this tool remove barriers?

Multiple Means of Representation- Students can use a variety of images and print text to create their own story. The combination of print and visual image can help learners who are struggling with reading and writing.

Multiple Means of Expression: Storybird is excellent for allowing students to express their creativity. They can choose from a plethora of images to use or create their own images. Storybird facilitates students in managing information through the creation of a linear storyline, complete with images.

Multiple Means of Engagement: Storybird will not be boring for students as they can as little or as much creative as they want to be. The options in the art-inspired images are almost limitless and students have the choice of creating their own images. Students can also receive online comments and feedback from their classmates and parents about their story, which allows for a sense of community and social reinforcement.

Required Age: Those under the age of 18 need to review the Terms of Service with a parent or guardian