Web 2.0 Tools

Web 2.0 Tools for the Classroom

Google Docs

Google Docs is a great tool that can be used inside and outside of the classroom. This tool allows students to create and edit documents, spreadsheet, etc. online while simultaneously collaborating with other students.

In addition this tool has an app that can be accessed on any mobile device which creates easy access for the students. This gives the students the ability to access group homeworks or share certain documents with one another. 

As long as the student has a Google account, he/she is able to access and use the tool HERE. 

This application can help reduce barriers in the classroom by creating an interactive environment between students. This enables learners who have special needs such as a speech deficits the ability to communicate effectively with others through the use of writing. 

YouTube

YouTube is a website that contains millions of videos, including many that are instructional and class content orientated. These videos can be easily accessed and viewed in the classroom for instructional purposes. 

Youtube is a great tool that can be used in the classroom because it provides both visual and auditory inputs for students. This can remove or reduce barriers for students because it facilitates learning for those who prefer visual or audio methods of learning. 

In addition YouTube can be easily accessed outside of the classroom, therefore students are able to rewatch videos to inhance their learning. Thus this is a great tool for those who require repetition of material in order to memorize. 

Although YouTube has an age restriction of 13 in its Terms of Use, it is still a great tool that can be used to share videos with older students.

VoiceThread 

VoiceThread is a good tool that can be used in the classroom, especially if the teacher is away and needs to leave a lesson with the substitue. VoiceThread allows a teacher to upload photos/slides to their video which they can then record their voice explaining each slide. 

VoiceThread is a tool that can be used to reduce or eliminate barriers in the classroom because it is very effective for students who prefer visual or auditory aide to learn. In addition, the videos can be easily viewed outside the classroom for further consolidation of material. Therefore through the use of VoiceThread a student may access information any time, any place and at any pace.