Web Tools

It is easier than ever to create and share information on the web.  These easily interactive tools that allow the online user to create and share content are collectively referred to as Web 2.0.  I have chosen three Web 2.0 tools to describe that I think are highly beneficial for education.

Google drive is the best, easiest way to create and share content with others.  It allows users to share their content or to collaborate on content.  It works with many file types (documents, spreadsheets, etc.) and converts these file types to other platforms (Word).  Google has integrated its drive nicely with Google Classroom (another great Web 2.0 system).

I've never actually used poll everywhere.  I read about it as part of my assignment for my Georgia Teacher Open Online training.  I plan to use it tomorrow.  I will use it to poll my AP students about various multiple choice questions to gauge their responses before we go over the questions.  In the past, I have used Kahoot (another great tool) for this.  Kahoot makes questions like a game and adds a fun aspect, but it has strict text limits and polls aren't the easiest to create.  It also has strict limits on the number of allowed responses.  Poll Everywhere looks easier to use when not needing a game.  I guess I'll find out tomorrow.

Another program I learned about through TOOL is JoinMe.  I plan to use it as a way to run online meetings for my online class.  In the past, I have used Google Hangouts for this purpose.  I will still use Hangouts, but JoinMe looks to be a much easier way to present information to students other than text or voice.  The screen sharing capability is what look forward to using.

The great thing about all these tools is that they are free!  They are great for file sharing, polling, and screencasting.  There are so many tools available, but the right tool at the right time can make so much difference.