WEB 2.0 EDUCATIONAL TOOLS
SKYPE in the Classroom
Skype in the Classroom is a video-conferencing tool that allows students to have audio conversations, video-chat or message others. Individuals and classes can post forums describing their educational setting and focus. This area can also be used as a means for connecting with professionals or other classes as a means of collaborating and gleaning from others. Skype is free when using it Skype to Skype. However, for a fee, one can use to call phones.
You can visit Skype in the Classroom by visiting https://education.skype.com/
Some of the Features of Skype in the Classroom include:
- It's FREE!
- Easy to use.
- Allows students to connect with experts in any given field.
- Students can connect and collaborate with students around the world.
- Students can be exposed to other perspectives, cultures and worldviews.
- Students learn to create networks and relationship with others.
- It creates students to become better global citizens
- Students can learn to take the initiatve for their own learning and interactive experience.
How It Can Be Used in the Classroom:
- Students can collaborate with other students to develop ideas or create projects.
- Students can consult with experts during or for a project.
- Students can learn to engage and interact with other cultures.
Using Skype in the Classroom as a UDL tool:
- Skype in the Classroom would be good for students who enjoy group work, learn through discussion and are hands-on learning.
- As students use Skype and create connections with other people, they are likely to remember information if emotional connections are made - thus, it has the potential to enter the sphere of Affective Learning.
Required Age of Users:
2.2 You cannot accept these Terms if: (a) you are not lawfully entitled to use the Software, Products and/or Skype Websites in the country in which you are located or resident or (b) if you are not of legal age to form a binding agreement with Skype.
In Canada, one can create an account at the age of 14. Teachers utilizing Skype in the Classroom should be aware of the Policies around Privacy as Skype does collect some personal information, and owns the Property Rights to all content posted or created through their software.
POWTOON 4 EDU
PowToon 4 Edu is a video animation tool that can be used to generate videos and presentations.
You can visit PowToon by visiting http://www.powtoon.com/edu-home/
Some of the Features of PowToon include:
- It's FREE! or you can pay a small fee to upgrade.
- Easy to use templates, characters and
How It Can Be Used in the Classroom:
- Use it to teach demos
- Introduce a new unit
Using PowToon 4 Edu in the Classroom as a UDL tool:
- Since it is simple to use, students who are not technologically inclined will find it easy to use but it still has the ability to generate fun and professional-looking presentations.
- Students can present their learning in a non-traditional format
- Engages learners since learning becomes fun.
Required Age of Users:
There are no age requirements for using PowToon 4 Edu.
PREZI
Prezi is a 3D canvas that allows individuals to combine various materials and resources to create a presentation. Prezi creates a forum for students to collect and display information in a creative and artistic way.
You can visit Prezi by visiting http://prezi.com/prezi-for-education/
Some of the Features of Prezi include:
- It's FREE! or you can pay a small fee to upgrade.
- Easy to use. Projects can be generated using the "Touch Screen" option.
- Students can share their projects through the internet and thus, provide and receieve feedback on their work.
- Non-linear thinkers can display their work and learning in a creative, fun and artistic way.
How It Can Be Used in the Classroom:
- Displaying work visually can inspire and expand further learning and research.
- Generates student interest and engages students which essentially inspires them to take responsibility and ownership for their learning.
- Students can create ePortfolios that display their work, learning and progress.
- Teachers can use it as an assessment tool.
Using Skype in the Classroom as a UDL tool:
- Presentations on Prezi can help students: 1) With ADHD who need help focusing because information is presenting in a clean and concise manner. 2) Those with visual impairment can zoom in on words or concepts. 3) Provide linear and clear connections for those who are visual learners.
- Students can organize information in a manner that makes sense visually, not just conceptually.
- Great for "hands on learners."
Required Age of Users:
Prezi is restricted to those 13 years of age and older, with the consent of a parent or guardian. Otherwise, it is restricted to those who have reached the Age of Majority in their region. Parents and guardians are responsible to ensure that they and the child adhere to the Terms of Use. "Prezi will never knowingly solicit, nor will it accept, personally identifiable information from visitors or users known to be under thirteen (13) years of age" (www.prezi.com/terms-of-use)