Tech Tuesday!
Quick info on cool tools...
Educlipper.net...get to clipping!
Educlipper.com is the "Pinterest" for educators and students. What the students are able to view is easily controlled by the teacher and we can actually access it at school. Yay to something useful not being blocked! Anyway, it is very simple to use and sign up for. You are able to add classes, with each class being given an access code. The access code is what students will need to create their own account, giving them access to all content that you post to their class. You, as the teacher, are able to "clip" websites, documents, videos, and images, giving your students access to ALL they need for whatever project you are working on. This means you can give students online access to your lesson presentations/instructions/rubrics (PPT, DOC, etc.), websites for research/assignments, images of exemplary projects from the past, and so much more! Best of all, this website is completely FREE. You aren't forced to use a watered down version of the product, as with many other Web 2.0 tools. Something to note: this website just came out in the spring, so it is not as sophisticated or speedy as Pinterest. I'm sure it will get even better as it develops. One to watch!
Smore.com...Spread the word!
The flyer you are reading today was created on Smore.com. I am using the free version, which has tons of features and is very easy to use. They are also running a special right now for educators to get the Pro version for $45/year. I'll be using the free version. :) Smores are simple, attractive flyers that get your message to the intended audience in an engaging way. Once completed, you can share your flyer on social media sites, send an email link, embed in your blog/website, or print it off. There are tons of potential uses for this site! You could spread the word for school events, give students and parents quick info about your classroom/assignments, create a flyer explaining how to complete a certain task online using a screencast (more info about this in an upcoming Tech Tuesday flyer), etc. Be creative! I'm sure you can come up with many more uses for Smore.com. My usage in the immediate future will consist of passing on quick information for staff professional development. Please let me know if you need help using this site. It really is fun and easy to use!
Let ME help YOU! :)
If at any time you need assistance planning assignments/research projects, searching for resources on a topic, figuring out how to incorporate Web 2.0 tools into your classes, teaching your classes a specific research skill, or anything else, please let me know! I am here to help you and your students in any way that I can. Don't hesitate to ask!
~Mrs. Smith
http://www.westviewhslibrary.blogspot.com/