Web 2.0 Tools

Web 2.0 Tools

YouTube is a video sharing website.

Users can view, share and upload videos to the site, and other users in the community can comment.

The web address is: www.youtube.com

YouTube would be a good launching point Web 2.0 tool for the classroom due to student familiarity.

I would use YouTube to build student confidence with applications as well as demonstrate its potential as a reference tool. Tutorials posted on YouTube could then be used to explore new Web 2.0 tools.

YouTube could be especially beneficial to visual learners, but as a reference would be helpful to all students. Additionally, the ability to replay videos would be helpful to those who have trouble picking up concepts quickly.

Terms of service indicate that YouTube should not be used by anyone under the age of 13. Users 13 and up may create a Google account which is linked to YouTube.

Videos deemed unsuitable for minors will not be accessible to account holders under the age of 18.

Google docs is a web based, office & productivity suite, that also happens to be freeware.

Web address: docs.google.com

Google drive is a cloud based storage service that can be paired with Google docs.

Web address: www.google.com/drive

Users can access both services with a google account.

Word processing, spread sheets and slide presentation applications are accessible through Google. In addition, there are a multitude of apps available to students free of charge.

With Google Drive projects can be saved and accessed directly by students on a computer or mobile device. Real time access and editing is possible, which could redefine collaboration in a student setting.

Customizable accounts allow students to create personal app lists to aid in learning at the individual level. Some apps include a text to speech program, calulator and dictionary.

Users must be 13 and up to create an account. Accounts with false information may be disabled. Apps may have additional terms of service and age requirments.

Adobe Photoshop is an industry standard for graphic design. Adobe Photoshop Express Editor is a free version accessible directly on the Photoshop website.

Web Address:http://www.photoshop.com/tools?wf=editor

Adobe Photoshop Express will give students a chance to preview professional quality software. It uses a simplified interface and has links to tutorials.

This would be a good application for students who like to express themselves creatively, while giving aspiring students a chance to get familiar with high quality software at their own pace.

Users don't need an account to use the application; photos are uploaded directly to the site and edited online.