Incorporating Web 2.0 into the Classroom Environment
EDU 210: Introduction to Educational Technology
Module 7 - Part A: Web 2.0 Education
Cheillah Kranic
University of Alberta
March 2014
Survey Monkey is a versatile tool which allows users to not only create customized surveys, polls and quizzes online but also evaluate the resulting data. Although the Terms of Service did not contain any specific information on the required age of users, this tool can be used for all ages as the surveys, polls and quizzes will be created by a teacher to reach that particular age group. Survey Monkey could be used for a variety of purposes within the school environment. In the classroom, it can be used for an alternate way of delivering tests/quizzes to students as well as it could be used in other capacities such as staff engagement or parent directed surveys. There is some belief that some children with reading difficulties have an easier time reading on a computer screen and by delivering tests online, this could give those students a better chance at succeeding.
A blog is a personal website with the intent for people to share opinions and information. Edublogs is a platform created specifically for educational purposes. This secure website allows teachers and students to create and share blogs in the classroom. This could be used in a Language Arts perspective in place of a traditional reflection journal. Students can update blog posts and gain feedback from their peers as well as it is also an easy way to incorporate lessons regarding responsible digital citizenship. This could be an alternative for students who struggle with writing (or penmanship) skills as it may make it easier for them to communicate their thoughts. The terms of service do not have a required age for users but as it is specifically targeted towards teachers and students over a secure connection, this tool could be used for a variety of age groups.
YouTube is a video-hosting website that allows users to upload and share videos. The terms of service require that users be at least 13 years of age to use this service, however for younger students, if appropriate video clips are chosen at the discretion of the instructor, video examples could be used to enhance a lesson and as long as Copyright guidelines are being followed, an easy way to incorporate technology into the classroom. By having the ability to view examples, students may have a better grasp of the information. YouTube is also home to a variety of instructional videos which could be useful for the professional development of teachers and could be implemented as part of a Professional Learning Network.