TECH+TIP

You will post your digital handout on this page. Your handout must be posted BEFORE you present your Tech Tip.

OUTLINE TECH TIP # _ Your name Name of Technology What it is How it works Pros Cons How it can be used in the classroom Review of other similar technologies


 * Tech Tip # 1: Kelly Smith**


 * //Name: Type With Me//** www.typewith.me


 * //What it is://** Type With Me is an online tool that allows users to collaborate while writing a report or other similar group project.

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 * //How It Works//**


 * //Pros://** Type With Me allows for joint collaboration on any written project. Students can use the chat box to discuss ideas and thoughts on the project before putting any content in the actual writing space. It allows for easy identification of who is working by highlighting each person's work in a different color.


 * //Cons://** Type With Me is only useful for writing projects. You cannot put pictures or other things in the document. Type With Me is supposed to allow the importing of projects being worked on and the export of finished projects. This function would not work for me so it may be problematic.


 * //Classroom Use://** This is a useful tool for distance learning. It would also be useful for students seeking an easier way to collaborate on written assignments. Outside of that it does not seem to have any great use in the classroom.


 * //Similar Technology://** Type With Me and GoogleDocs both allow for groups to easily collaborate on a project. However, GoogleDocs allows the user to do more things online.

Google Docs docs.google.com/ Google Docs is a free, internet-based tool that enhances collaboration and mobility for its users. It combines the technologies of instant-messaging and emailing with Microsoft Office-like online software.
 * __TECH TIP #2 – Justin Neideigh__**
 * __Name of Technology__:**
 * __What it is__:**
 * __How it works:__**

media type="youtube" key="TYPjJK6LZdM" height="315" width="420" Set up a Google Docs account online at docs.google.com/. Select “Create New” to create a document, presentation, spreadsheet, form, or drawing. Or select “Upload” to upload current files from your computer into your Google Docs account. It basically works like a drop box / email account and lets you “star” important files or move unimportant files to the trash. In Google Docs, highlighting a section and right clicking allows you to leave comments for that section or begin a conversation with a collaborator who is also online and working in Google Docs. Clicking on “Share” allows you to publish the file to the internet as a web page, send the content in the form of an email, or send the content as an email attachment. + Accessible from any computer with internet access + No need for flash drives or jump drives + No need to save and email files back and forth + Collaborate / communicate on an online document while you are working on it live in real time & simultaneously + Easy to save / access all work online + Paperless + Electronic record of everything: who posted document, when it was opened, when it was modified etc. + Makes publishing work and sharing it with others very easy + Less meetings, less emails + Security features enable sharing work with selected others + Increases students’ pride in their work + Allows you to convert files from one format to another easily and quickly + Much easier to embed videos, pictures, audio files from the internet + Can create files or upload them from computer - Not as user-friendly (at first) as Microsoft Office software - Requires access to the internet - No PC shortcuts (ex: [Ctrl] + [s] = save) Google Docs is very similar to Microsoft Office software. It is Google’s online version of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Paint etc. plus some extra added features. Microsoft Office software is generally more user-friendly, can perform more complex tasks, and provides more explanation/help for people who are not familiar with using the technology.
 * __Pros:__**
 * __Cons:__**
 * __How it can be used in the classroom:__**
 * presentations (no flash drives or emails)
 * documents
 * papers (peer editing, teacher feedback)
 * projects (group work, peer reviews)
 * test results / class grade distributions (publish spreadsheets or charts of results)
 * permission slips (electronic forms, correspondence, student surveys)
 * parent letters / emails
 * __Review of other similar technologies:__**


 * Tech Tip #3: Josh Shepler**


 * Name of the Technology:** Wikispaces


 * What it is:** A hosting website where users can create or edit existing pages for private wikis.


 * How it works:** An administrator or 'group leader' creates a Wikispace and invites those that he/she wants to work on it. Once they join the Wikispace, they are able to edit and contribute to pages already present or add entirely new ones.

-Easy to use (no knowledge of computer programming language required) -Very versatile, Wikispaces can be used for anything from brainstorming to project presentation -Users can embed many different 'widgets' into their Wikispace, including videos, images, polls, spreadsheets, and calendars -Most of the features one would expect from Microsoft Word are available to those wanting to work on their Wikispace -The only way to edit the Wikispace is to be a verified member, making it very private and protected from outside tampering -It is easy to see the 'history' of the wiki, who changed what and when -Private wikis (only editable and viewable by wiki members) are free for educators (K-12) -Public and Protected wikis are free to everyone -Interacts with many other pieces of instructional technology including Glogster -Customizable appearance
 * Pros:**

-Only one person can be editing at one time
 * Cons:**
 * -**Private wikis cost $5 a month

-Assignments can be delivered through Wikispaces -Creating a "class portfolio" which showcases the students' work -Creating biographies using the extensive set of Widgets -Bringing the class together as an online community -Brainstorm/Collaborative group work
 * How can it be used in the classroom:**

The most similar technologies to Wikispaces are other wiki-hosting websites, such as Editme and Wikia. All wiki-hosting sites are fairly open and customizable, so all are great for creating personal informative websites. These run the gamut of having paid and non-paid versions, but the options available to educators makes Wikispaces better for us.
 * Review of other similar technologies:**

For anyone looking to set up their own Wikispace, the following tutorial runs through many of the tools and actions you can use: media type="youtube" key="df2rC2QfvFc" height="315" width="560"


 * Tech Tip #4: Joanna Coté**


 * Name of Technology**: WordPress.com


 * What it is:** In short, WordPress.com is an open source, free website that can be used as a space for blogging and sharing various types of information with many people quickly and simply. It is currently the most popular site for blogging on the internet. (WordPress.**org** is slightly different, in that it involves paying for webhosting and is used more for commercial or business purposes.)

media type="youtube" key="TbmIRqvK0M0" height="345" width="420" (1:00 – 2:23 WordPress.org)
 * How it works:**

- Wordpress.com is free. - This program makes information available to your students quickly and simply. - Blogging is a big part of today’s society, and using blogs allows students to practice “networking.” - Students can collaborate and touch base with their fellow classmates, enhancing the community atmosphere. - The blog can be available to both students //and// parents, keeping everyone in the loop of classroom assignments and announcements without ever needing to use paper! - Students who are absent or want to work ahead can view the assignments posted on the page by the teacher.
 * Pros:**

- In order to operate with a //large// amount of “space” on the blog (posting many videos, photos, audio clips, etc), bloggers may want to first find a webhosting site, which requires paying a fee. - Not every student has the same access to technology, and internet access at times can be temperamental.
 * Cons:**

The teacher can use the blog to communicate with the students and parents about assignments, the course schedule, and announcements. The sharing of digital information with the students (videos, audio, etc) is made simple with blogs. How many students always “lose the handout,” requiring the teacher to print or search for another copy? Using a blog erases this dilemma, granting students easy access to the blog and the plethora of information posted there. A classroom blog can also enhance the nature of peer critiques. Students can post their work on the blog, making is easy for their classmates to respond with a reflection or critique of their work. This allows the teacher to assess student participation and effort in peer critiques as well.
 * How it can be used in the classroom:**

Wikispaces is similar to Wordpress.com in some ways; they both involve the sharing of ideas. Wikispaces, though, is far more open, allowing participants to collaborate together and constantly change the information posted. Wordpress.com has an organized structure with posts and sub-posts, acting more as a website with various features.
 * Review of other similar technologies:**


 * Tech Tip #5** – Nina Bender


 * Technology:** Twitter ([|www.twitter.com])


 * What it is:** Twitter is one of the more popular social networks used among adolescents and adults alike. It allows its’ members to “follow” each other through a series of personal “tweets”, updates consisting of 140 characters or less.

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 * How it works**: A Twitter member will use “tweets” in order to communicate with those they are “following”. A text box appears at the top of the home screen and can contain up to 140 words. Once the text is posted, anyone following that particular member will be able to see what they have just written, or “tweeted”. Group chats are also available using Twitter; if multiple members would like to tweet each other at the same time there are discussion forums available for them.

+Tweets are short, sweet, and to the point. +Twitter is accessible to anyone with an account from a variety of technological devices (computers, smart phones, ect.) +Members have the capability to “follow” virtually anything that interests them. +Previous tweets can easily be accessed. +Private messages can also be sent to specific users if a member does not want to tweet to the rest of their followers. +Twitter offers an option to “re-tweet”; posting what someone else has previously posted to share with more people. +If used for a classroom purpose, parents would be able to follow the teacher’s updates and what their students are doing.
 * Pros:**

-Unless a member changes their privacy settings, it is easy for anyone to follow a specific person. -Not all information posted on Twitter sites, like many other websites, is accurate. -If used in a classroom, it could be difficult to regulate what pages are actually being viewed; the teacher would have no way of controlling who else the students choose to follow.
 * Cons:**

Below are examples of how some secondary schools have already begun to incorporate Twitter in the classroom. media type="youtube" key="cv5qvSlXTmA" height="345" width="560" media type="youtube" key="1s7yJmY71d4" height="345" width="420"
 * How it can be used in the classroom:**


 * Review of other similar technologies**: The most similar technology to Twitter would be the social network, Facebook. Like Facebook, Twitter allows its members to post videos, photos, and updates. Also, members can “tag” their friends in posts. Though Facebook still seems to hold more popularity, Twitter’s user count is rapidly growing. More “celebrities” seem to be using this social forum as opposed to Facebook, giving it increasing popularity.


 * Tech Tip #6** - Phillip Thomas

Bubbl www.bubbl.us
 * Name of Technology:**


 * What it is:** Bubbl is a "mind mapping" tool that can be used to create concept maps, and idea webs. It is an extremely useful tool for brainstorming and for expressing complicated ideas in a way both the organized and the somewhat scatter brained can easily understand. Bubbl is completely free to sign up for, and has a limited collaboration panel.

The is an example bubbl that I have created based upon one of the more complicate subjects from my content area, The French Revolution:




 * How it Works:** The user can either sign up for a Bubbl account or may begin using Bubbl without creating an account. However, creating an account is free and necessary in order to use save mind maps, or to use the collaboration tools such as chat. Once started the user will see a bubble labeled "Start Here" once you click on this bubble a text marker will appear and you may enter your title. After creating your initial bubble you may make more sibling bubbles or children bubbles. Users that have signed up for accounts may also chat with other users and send mind maps from user to user either in "read only" or "editing enabled" formats. Users can also save their mind maps as either a .jpg file or

This overview explains the basics of bubbl.us, it is the most useful tutorial I could find, however based upon the panels he appears to be using it is probably an outdated version of Bubbl.

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 * Pros:**
 * Very user friendly and simple to use
 * Free to sign up
 * Can save a project and come back to it later
 * Saves on the website
 * No software to download
 * Accessible through any computer with internet
 * Easy to organize complex subjects
 * Can chat and send mind maps from user to user
 * Cons:**
 * Less involved than other similar websites
 * Collaboration is limited to text chat and sending maps via share tool
 * No real time collaboration


 * How it can be used in the classroom:** This technology is very useful for making connections within a specific topic. It could be used in order to get the brainstorming segment of a group project out of the way outside of class and may make brainstorming during class time more efficient. It could also be used as a stand-alone assignment in either a Social Studies course or Literature course in which students are asked to draw connections between historical events, historical figures, characters, plot points, etc.


 * Review of other similar technologies:** Bubbl's main competitor is mywebspiration, both have characteristics positive towards different groups. Bubbl appears much simpler, and easier to use, however it has less options for collaboration. Mywebspiration is more involved and has more options for group work, however, after a thirty day trial it must be purchased.


 * Tech Tip #7** - Allison Smith


 * Technology**: Mywebspiration.com


 * What it is**: Mywebspiration.com offers two choices for use and those interested can sign up for either Webspiration Classroom or WebspirationPro. Webspiration Classroom is a program created by //Inspiration Software// designed for teachers and students grade 5-12. Mywebspiration is advertised as “the online writing, visual thinking and collaboration tool for students and teachers.”


 * How it works**: The program allows students and teachers to brainstorm, organize information, build comprehension, and develop written ideas. Webspiration Classroom focuses on visual thinking and outlining techniques. Students can collaborate, share and engage with their classmates while working on projects from scratch or from a teacher posted assignment. There is the ability to change colors, insert pictures, add hidden notes to icons for clarification, work on one project with others simultaneously, and deliver to the teacher for comments and evaluation. It is also possible for students to live chat with classmates and send messages, but these can be disabled by school officials.

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 * Pros**:
 * 24/7 access
 * Automatically saved and secured online
 * Available anywhere there is internet connection
 * Easy to use and easy to maneuver around site
 * Nothing to install to computer
 * Keeps work organized
 * Diagrams can be easily turned into outlines
 * With transfer options work can go straight to Google Docs or Microsoft Word with the click of a button


 * Cons**:
 * After 30 day trial users must pay a subscription
 * Some students may not have the ability to work from home
 * Relying on technology can sometimes be a gamble if it isn’t working properly


 * How it can be used in the classroom**: Mywebspiration can make in class time for group projects shorter since they can work on it outside of school easily. This can be used as a great way for students to work on their critical thinking skills with the practice of making connections within and around a topic. Also, it gives the students the chance to be creative with their work. If students are absent it also can be used to keep projects going even if there is no chance to meet up in class. For teachers it can make collecting projects easy and organized since the work goes into files which can be graded and returned online.


 * Review of other similar technologies**: One of mywebspiration’s competitors, bubbl.us, looks much more simplistic and seems to have fewer options.


 * Tech Tip #8** - Chris Fisher


 * Technology:** [|www.Zamzar.com]


 * What it is:** Zamzar is a website that allows people to upload files and convert them into many different formats so they may be used with devices that support formats different than the original file was created for


 * How it works:** Zamzar is very simple to use since you just input the URL for the file you want to convert and click the format you want the file to be converted to. This can be copied and pasted in, typed in, or entered with one simple click if the service is added to your web browsers toolbar. You then just type in the email you would like the converted file sent to and once the program has formatted it they send the finished product to you in the form of a link. From there, it is as easy clicking the link and saving it where it is most convenient for you on the computer. This file is now a permanent fixture on your computer and can be viewed at your own convenience and shared in that converted format as well. The best part is that this is a free service and you never have to download any software for the utilization of this convenient web application.

+ This web based application is straightforward and easy to use + It works for just about any file format imaginable (Documents, Images, Music, Videos, etc.) + The service is free to use + Works seamlessly with both Macs and PCs since this application is web based + After conversion, files can be saved on the computer for permanent storage + Converted files can be shared with others + Allows you to integrate into toolbar for even easier use + No need to download software + Can rename files for easy access later
 * Pros:**

- Upload size is limited to 100MB for free version (can be expanded up to 1GB with monthly subscription fee) - You must know the file format needed for the device you wish to use your file on - Limited to 24 hours to access and save file from email or it will be deleted
 * Cons:**


 * How it can be used in the classroom:** This can be used by students and teachers to take documents typed in older or newer versions of programs such as Microsoft Word and converted so that they are usable on all the computers that file will be accessed on. This information can be easily converted, placed on a flash drive, and accessed in the appropriate format. This alleviates the frustration of opening a document and having all the text and structure of the document messed up.

-Freefileconvert.com à Lacks email capabilities with built in link -Formatfactory.com à Program must be downloaded to be used -Convertfiles.com à Operates much slower than Zamzar
 * Review of other similar technologies:** While there are other file conversion programs available for free on the internet, none are as user friendly and efficient as Zamzar. In addition, none of these that I saw advertised a toolbar link as convenient as Zamzar.
 * -**Mediaconverter.org à Not as user friendly or easy to understand

** Tech Tip #9 ** – RC Youse

** Technology ** : [|www.weebly.com]

** What it is ** : Weebly.com is an easy-to-use site for building your own webpage. A website can be edited and published quickly and marketed effectively by Weebly to be found in Google search results. It is a perfect way to advertise your business or provide your students with supplemental information for class.

** How it works ** : Weebly’s best feature is it’s ease of use. All one needs to do is select a page style or template to get started. Once you decide on your pages you would like to have, simply drag and drop the various elements offered to fill out the pages. You can add text, pictures, videos, mp3’s, graphs, and mush more depending on whether you pay to use the site. After you finish your site, all you have to click is “publish” and your website is online! Weebly will then help you to decide the best way for your site to be found if searched for on sites like Google on Bing.

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** Pros ** :
 * Worldwide access
 * Sites are saved through Weebly’s cloud service and protected
 * Very easy-to-use with “drag and drop” features to add to your site
 * Attractive and flashy features and templates to keep visitors’ attention
 * 24/7 tech support for every feature of the site
 * Enhanced search assistance helps your website to be found easier than ever

** Cons ** :
 * Many of the best features require a subscription
 * Sites have to use a sub-domain of Weebly unless they pay for their own
 * Logistics regarding “drag and drop” can sometimes be confusing

** How it can be used in the classroom ** : Weebly has the potential to be an excellent classroom tool. A teacher could design and maintain a website for free featuring class information, important announcements, a blog, and supplemental information. Videos can be posted on the site for additional viewing on class topics. Scholarly articles could also be posted. If a teacher creates a “web-form,” students can submit a question regarding course work without needing the teacher’s school email address.

** Review of other similar technologies ** : One of Weebly’s competitors, godaddy.com, is an exclusively pay domain site and is more commercialized.

+facebook appearance and account controlled features such as comments and number of likes + reinforces the social networking and sharing ideas of facebook + URL that allows you to share the profile with the public + easy navigation +free and easy set up (only requires an email address and a password)
 * Tech Tip #10-Kathryn Roland **
 * Technology ** : myfakewall.com
 * What it is: ** A free website similar to Facebook in that it allows users/account holders to create profiles of historical, famous and/or fictitious characters.
 * How it Works: ** This website allows you to create, edit, and comment on people's fake walls. The site appears exactly like facebook; except, the editing and set up processes differ.
 * Pros: ** + user friendly

- requires a lot of set up time - Since I experienced trouble setting up my fake profile using different browsers, I couldn't explore the website more :-( Mainly, this is a creativity device that can be used in the classroom when discussing current events, historical figures and characters from a book. For instance, if a high school level literature class is reading King Lear, or a play of some sort involving various characters, this website might serve as a useful tool in class discussions. The teacher could, after discussion, post important comments made by students on myfakewall and the URL can be made accessible to students.I could imagine a core subject teacher using this in the classroom to engage the students as most already have a facebook account. Again, this could be used in any subject where the theme revolves around a particular person or character. Unfortunately, this website requires a lot of set up time and in several attempts of expanding a profile, the site froze. Facebook, being the "real" wall as opposed to fake, is faster functioning site whose profiles are individualized according to the person that created the account. Because teachers may need the need to steer away from the use of Facebook in the classroom, the site would not be appropriate.
 * Cons: ** -The website is very slow (tried using different browers multiple times to expand the profile. My computer crashed at one point using it)
 * How it can be used in the Classroom: **
 * Review of other similar technologies:**


 * Tech Tip #11 – Sytiva Seitz**

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 * Technology**: sites.google.com
 * What it is:** Google Sites is a free, internet-based program that allows anyone to easily create a website for your group, classroom, or company by providing easy create/edit features.
 * How it Works:** This website allows you to create your own public or private website without a domain name and without any prior knowledge of HTML formats. It makes is very easy to put information out there, and allow (or not allow) others to edit the page easily.


 * Pros:**


 * Easy to access (any computer/device with internet)
 * Everyone knows Google!
 * Easy set-up process for non-HTML users
 * Permission settings allow you to make public or private, and allow you to control who edits the page
 * Easily imbeds Google Content and many other files from your computer into the website
 * Add files from your computer or the web


 * Cons:**


 * Website takes time to load (when you make a new website)
 * Templates are difficult to change
 * Big files take a long time to download/will download with errors or not at all


 * How it can be used in the Classroom:** Like our Class Wiki, Google Sites is a great resource for any classroom teacher that wants to use technology to communicate with her students. The site allows all users who are invited to see all information, announcements, and files that the host posts, and the ideas of use for classroom projects or collaborations are endless. You can post rubrics for assignments for all to see, or attach permission forms to the webpage. You can also invite parents into the site, who can see when upcoming assignments are due and also monitor what their child is doing in your classroom. By making your classroom site private, you allow a constant flow of communication with your class without the fear of outside interference.


 * Review of other similar technologies:** Google sites is similar to Wikispaces and PBwiki in that they are free for educators. Google Sites allows you to store more than Wikispaces (GS-10GB, Wiki- 2GB), but Wiki allows you to upload bigger files (up to 20 MB). I had trouble uploading certain files and photos to Google Sites because of this. But overall, Google Sites provides more of a vast array of options for editing fonts, sizes, and colors than Wikispaces.


 * Tech Tip # 12**: Megan Byorick
 * Technology**: Edmodo.com


 * How it Works**: Edmodo operates similar to an online social network, however the teacher has complete control over the system. The site is organized by a **personal profile**, **latest posts**, **groups**, **calendar**, **grades**, and **library**. The profile section offers different ways to put information on the site, depending if the user is a teacher or a student. There is no personal information or locators available, and the instructor has the ability to keep the site closed to outside viewers. The “latest posts” organizer is broken into several sections including **all activity**, **direct/private** (similar to an email), **student-only activity**, **me-only activity**, **alerts**, **assignments**, **polls** and **recent activity**. Each subsection offers specific tools and ways to engage and moderate student activity. You are able to message an entire class or a single student. You are able to send out “red flags” or reminders, as well as upcoming assignments.

-Ribbons to offer words of encouragement to students -Moderation: you can see everything that a student does and says (unless it is deleted or edited.) Inappropriate behavior can allow you to remove a student from the group if you desire. -Organized: you can have as many documents as you want in your “library,” and place them into folders -Engaging: Polls, comments, alerts; Students can submit homework, questions, emails and comments all in one place in a quick way -Students can only join your group if you give them the access code -Management: Instructor has the ability to control what happens within a group. -Grades are private and instant -Students don’t need an email to sign up -Can message parents (if they are logged onto the site)
 * Pros**:

-Hard to figure out. It took me two days to figure out how to post a profile picture. -When facilitating many groups, some of view orientations of posts can be cluttered, primarily the **see all** and **recent** activities. -Sometimes the codes to access the group doesn’t work, preventing the students from entering the group until the instructor is informed and able to reset the code. -When you post assignments on the **calendar** it does not immediately post to that group’s page; however, if you post an assignment to a group’s page, the assignment will immediately appear on the calendar.
 * Cons**:


 * How it can be used in the classroom**: Once used to the site, it is fantastic. I wouldn’t mind more organization of folders in the **library**, but other than that, it offers a grade book (and does the math, too!), ways to encourage students by offering them acknowledgement or a ribbon for their work, a shy student can still participate privately in a safe environment with the instructor and with classmates. An online discussion or activity on the polls can be brought to the classroom where students can have face-to-face interaction, debate, and development of ideas.


 * How it compares to other technology**: This is much safer to use than Facebook. It offers the instructor complete control and monitoring ability. No one outside the class/group can view the group and student information is private and discrete to protect their identity inside and outside of class. This is similar to MyFakeWall, or other social networking sites, with the exception that this site allows for the student to take ownership for his ideas, work, and grades. It is a nice blend of Desire2Learn and Facebook.


 * Tech Tip #13: Corinne Snyder**


 * Technology: Moodle**

but it is personalized.
 * How it Works:** Moodle is an online worksheet that works similar to a desire to learn site here at Millersville University. The site works well with schools as well as businesses because it is a collaborative online database. The page gets set up similar to that of a web page where it has links, comments, messages, and calendars

-From a teaching prospective, students will have access to all class documents such as the syllabus, class rules and procedures, and expectations. -The site allows different links to other pages and material so a lot of information can be incorporated in the website. -There is a way to submit paperwork to the administrator so it can be used for assessment purposes. -There are messages and comments so that the site can be very collaborative.
 * Pros:**

-The site is very difficult to set up, but once it is set up it can be of good use. -There are a lot of other sites that do similar things and some schools may already use sites, such as desire to learn, so moodle may not be necessary.
 * Cons:**

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 * How can it be used in the classroom:** Teachers can use moodle for online classes or blended versions of classrooms. Students can post discussions or responses to class material very easily. Also, there is an instant messenger function which allows users to consult one another which would be nice for students. It is easy for a teacher to assess student understanding from moodle because each student has the chance to collaborate and answer questions. Moreover, there are online quiz functions that a teacher can set up as well as "plug-ins" for multiple choice, true/false, and fill in the blank quizzes. Other plug-ins are available to add enrollment functions, databases, and online activities. Also, Moodle serves as a nice timeline for students; there are calendars that can show due dates, tentative schedules can be posted about where the class is added. Another great function is that Moodle has its own Wiki, so students will be able to use various online technologies from one site. Overall, a class can be fully conducted through Moodle. Here is an example of how an AP History Teacher used Moodle in his own classroom:


 * How it compares to other technology:** Other online websites such as glogster or weebly are not as pedagogically friendly as Moodle. Moodle is truly designed for an educator's benefit.

www.glogster.com
 * Tech Tip # 13: Glogster: Mikaela Lanford**


 * What it Is**: Glogster is a digital poster creator at heart. Though it has recently become a bit of a social networking site as well, it allows students to create digital representations of information they gather and provide teachers with various assessment methods as well as research project ideas.

It's a simple process and easy to create. media type="youtube" key="NrM9zc8mibw" height="315" width="560"
 * How it Works:**

+ Totally customizable. You can pretty much do whatever you want. +Glogster is a great way to put all aspects of media into one presentation. You can include video, photos, music, hyperlinks to other webpages and straight text. You can even take a picture or video with your own webcam, if you wanted to include that in a project. +Glogster EDU accounts are completely private and can only be seen by the teacher who assigns them. +Glogster is free to use, unless you're a teacher and you wish to create more than 50 student accounts. +They are completely exportable to pretty much all other webpages. They're very proud of the fact that they just launched a Facebook application. They can even be exported into a Wikispaces page.
 * Pros:**

- It can be very overwhelming at first glance. There are so many options and so many things you can do, it takes a long time to weed through and find the things you actually want to use. -Glogster EDU free only allows 50 student profiles to be created at a time. -You are unable to control everything that can be seen on Glogster. Questionable material and images are abundant.
 * Cons:**

Glogster is at it's heart designed to be used within the classroom. I have seen teachers use it as a way to test knowledge in a content area (such as a novel or short story). It can also be used to create a digital science fair project or be used as a collaborative project within the classroom. Glogster is a great alternative to paper assignments for things like research projects, introductory assignments and even opinion pieces.
 * How It Can Be Used In The Classroom:**

poster4teachers.org: It's much easier to manage from a teacher's standpoint. It is simpler than Glogster, however the posters that are created aren't nearly as exciting or personalized. www.prezi.com: Prezi's are much more interactive than a Glogster presentation. They generally have more visual appeal and are better suited for a presentation. However, the site is just as intimidating and sometimes more difficult to use.
 * Review of Other Similar Technologies:**


 * Tech Tip #15: Jenna Kwasniuk**


 * Technology: Voicethread.com**

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 * How it Works:** VoiceThread is an interactive slideshow that allows users to upload files. Depending on the "publicness" of the account, other users can go in and comment on the slideshow with 5 techniques: voice comments left via computer, voice comments left via telephone, video comments left via webcam, text comments, or by audio file.


 * Pros:**
 * VoiceThread is fairly user friendly, with a limited amount of buttons to use for tasks.
 * VoiceThread is good for sharing group projects and viewing documents
 * It is also helpful for editing presentations and already formulated plans
 * The user can upload multiple documents at a time


 * Cons:**
 * Videos from YouTube are impossible to upload
 * Users cannot save the VoiceThread documents to their own computers, edit the documents, and then re-upload them.
 * VoiceThread is not the easiest way to brainstorm
 * It is difficult and annoying to edit the slide position
 * PowerPoint slide visuals are often changed when uploaded


 * How can it be used in the classroom:** Teachers can use VoiceThread as a good editing tool for students. Group projects can be edited and compiled on VoiceThread, and the instructor can view which students made which changes/notes to the slideshow. Individual projects can also be edited through VoiceThread, where a designated buddy, or entire class can view each others work and make suggestions. The teacher can also use VoiceThread as a tool to give feedback and grade projects by drawing and leaving notes on the slideshow.


 * How it compares to other technology:** Compared to Our Story, another visual collaboration website, VoiceThread is much easier to use, with a simpler layout and fewer buttons.

Tech Tip #17- Christopher Knarr
 * Technology:** [|www.xtranormal.com]
 * What is it?** Xtranormal.com is a text-to-movie website based on computer animated video clips, featuring 3-Dimensional characters speaking in monotone computer voices. Xtranormal’s mission statement is to bring movie making to the people. Everyone enjoys watching movies, so they want to bring the ability to make movies to everyone. Their approach to making movies is, if you can type, you can make a movie.

Xtranormal first works by creating an account. With this you have 2 options. The first is the basic movie maker option. This is the option you can use when you first register with the site. To use this option you first click to make a movie, than choose from a collection of actors which you would like to make your movie with. In this option you can only choose between 1 or 2 actors. From this point you choose the set, the actors you want to use, the sounds, and finally you can type the script of the story. You are given to start with 300 xp points to create a movie to start with. Once you run out of xp points you can purchase (by a credit card) more, 1000s at a time. Your xp points will only be charged when you decide you want to publish your movie. Which if you do decide to publish it, you can publish your movie right to facebook and youtube. The second option you have is the xtranormal state package. This package is described as “advanced movie making made easy.” It allows you to use up to 6 characters and record your own voice as the 3d characters voice, unfortunately all these extra stuff cost money, $49.50. But the basic set up is the same that you can create a movie by choosing from a variety of 3d characters, the sets, the sounds, and then you can type the script of the story.
 * How it works?**

The pros of using xtranormal.com are that if you are able to type you can make a movie. It is a fun and different way to captivate your student’s interest and attention, other than just standing in the front of the room lecturing. To buy more xp points it is relatively cheap, 1,200xp will cost you only $10. Another pro is that once you purchase and actor or set, this actor or set is permanently yours. Meaning you can use this person/set over and over again and you will not be charged. If you ever are confused on how to do something there are several forums on how to use all the aspects of xtranormal.com. To work the site you will need patience and will have to play around first before you can make a movie. To make a movie it is time consuming because it takes time to type in what the characters say as well as to click the movements of your characters. Another con is that you can play with the movie maker as much as you want, but if you would like to publish a movie onto youtube, it will cost you points, thus if you plan to use the site continually the site will cost you money.
 * Pros**
 * Cons**

In the classroom xtranormal can be used as a tool to advance your lectures, instead of the teacher standing in the front of the classroom lecturing, you can have a character relating to the subject presenting the subject matter. An example of this would be for a teacher to make a movie starring Neal Armstrong explaining the Apollo 11 Moon Landing. Also, Xtranormal.com is in the process of creating an education friendly version for students and teachers to use. This will allow students access to create their own movies dealing with the subject area. This package will cost money, depending on how many students use the site. Tools allow you to create assignments, moderate, grade, and give feedback; All within the privacy of your own class. For this though there is more to come in the future.
 * How it can be used in the classroom?**

scenecaster.com, this website creates a 3d animation scene but is more for the selling of goods. You would create a 3d panoramic scene, and then people could go onto your scene look at goods and if they clicked on a link, they could buy these goods on sites like amazon.com. Besides this website I could not find any similar websites.
 * Review of other similar technologies.**

Tech Tip #16- Keith Lutinski


 * Technology:** Animoto


 * Description**: Animoto is a video slide show where text, pictures, and background music flow together into one presentation. Pictures can be uploaded from one’s personal computer as well as from famous sites such as Facebook, Flickr, and Photo Bucket. The only downside of this, at least with the free version, is that the pictures must be uploaded by you, which means pictures that you’re only “tagged in” cannot be used. Music files that are in the MP3 format can be uploaded as well. Animoto does offer a variety of images, videos, and music to use for free. However, more templates, images, videos, and music becomes available if you upgrade to the paid versions.

-The video is essentially created for you, you simply choose the components -Created videos can be downloaded to your computer or to other sites, such as YouTube or Facebook (even in free version) -After revisions are made to a video, the previous versions of the video are saved. This allows the creator to resort to older videos before certain edits are made. -There is the option to add comments below created videos (This is identical to the comment feature on Facebook). -If the created video doesn't match your expectations, the Remix feature randomly reorganizes the order of the pictures and starting point of the song. -Also, a particular order of the pictures can be specified is so desired -There is a wide variety of background templates, videos, and pictures to choose from. -On the site there is a blog area, where questions, articles, and videos can be posted. -It is incredibly easy to sign up; all that is needed is an email account, password, full name, and a birthday
 * Pros**:

-The free version is very limiting -The number of pictures for one video averages around 12. -The length of video and song is roughly 30 seconds. -Paid versions can become quite expensive ($30/year to $499/year) -Slow loading time/freezing when listening to previews of songs
 * Cons**:

There are numerous ways Animoto can be used in the classroom. Presenting pictures and audio clips that depict a particular topic with an Animoto slideshow would be a great way to introduce a new unit. Another way Animoto could be implemented into the classroom is by having students create a small video that enhances or describes a particular issue or event (such as a political issue or worldly event). An example of this was seen in the 21st Century Learning Video where students created a commercial depicting a political stance. Animoto would be great for multi-genre projects, which require more than just written text. The pictures and audio clips of an Animoto video could enhance and expand a writing project. One example of a writing project Animoto could be used for is a book report. Students could use images, videos, and songs that relate to or describe key events or characters in the book they chose. This would teach students how to say more by using less (especially in the 30 second / 12 image free trial version).
 * Uses in the Classroom:**

Animoto is better than Xtranormal because it allows more creativity and “voice.” Although Animoto doesn’t allow you to “narrate” or create a dialogue, it does allow your own photos and music to be used, which is more original and personal. Also, Animoto allows you to incorporate a very limited amount of text, such as a heading or title and shows a variety of images and videos as opposed to the one, continuous video clip of Xtranormal. Therefore, Animoto would be more efficient and effective for creative projects and interactive slideshows in the classroom than Xtranormal would be.
 * Compared to the Competition**

http://animoto.com/play/aAwLFxJsTf9ZAiuo1A0Z9g
 * Sample video**:


 * Tech Tip #16 - Part Two: Daniel Kollasch**


 * Technology**: Animoto – Animoto.com

Example: Animoto Video
 * How It Works**: Animoto takes images and videos from your own collection on your computer and social networking sites and creates a stylish and professional video based on video templates on the website. Animoto also has a variety of image, video, and sound choices on the website.

- User interface has changed recently, so it is much easier to create videos - Several sites can be used to gather photos and videos - The order of the photos and videos can be shuffled or can be put in any specific order through click and drag - Every edit/version of a single video is saved - The start time of a song can be chosen if it is uploaded from your computer - Finished products appear professional, clean, and stylish - Eight seconds are given to undo a permanent deletion of a video - There is a free Iphone application - Videos are downloadable to computers and cell phones
 * Pros**:
 * Now, all aspects of creation are kept on one page
 * Now, you can add your own text to the movie

- You must pay monthly/yearly to get better options for creation of videos. Can be pricey. - There is a limited number of sites from which you may upload your photos (Flickr, SmugMug, Photobucket, Picasa, and Facebook - Only photos/videos uploaded by you can be used. No videos you are only “tagged” in can be used - Songs from the Animoto library have predetermined start times, and cannot be changed unless you upgrade from the Free version of Animoto - Video length is a max of 30 seconds unless you pay for an upgraded account.
 * Cons**:


 * How It Can Be Applied To The Classroom**: With the free version of this technology, students may be able to quickly make 30 second presentations. The way the video system is set up, the only way to get information across for a presentation would be to use only the text feature. The free version appears to be useful for Unit or Lesson introductions from the teacher. If the teacher were to purchase the cheapest account, each student would be able to go into the teacher’s account and create their own video. Then this could be used for group or individual presentations, and students could view each other’s video to get ideas and build knowledge off of one another.


 * How It Compares To Similar Technology**: Animoto names its competitors to be Xtranormal and RockYou, but neither of these sites is easily comparable to Animoto. RockYou is more of a game creating website while Xtranomal allows you to create a script that is animated. Animoto is a slideshow that focuses on picture and videos.


 * Tech Tip # 19 - Ashley Hart Smith**


 * Technology**: blabberize by [|www.blabberize.com]

media type="custom" key="10900428"

Step One: Find an image you would like to blabberize and save it to your computer. Step Two: Sign into blabberize and select make. This will bring you to a screen to upload your image, to do so click browse, find the image on you computer, and click open. Step Three: You now have the option to crop your image or contiue on to the blabberizing of the image. If you want to crop you click the little circle with the two rectangles in it (this feature only lets you change image space, not crop in any other shape than a square). If you click the little happy face next to it, it wants you to choose a different image so avoid this button. Step Four: Once you have the image you want, click the blue arrow in the bottom right hand side of the image. This will take you to the mouth feature. Step Five: The mouth feature takes a little playing around. The bottom large green dot represents how low your jaw will drop as you speak. The other dots are the shape of your mouth, you want to adjust the red circle to the size and shape of the mouth on the image you are blabberizing. I've noticed it looks better when you include the bottom jaw within your circle. Step Six: Once you have your mouth in place, click the blue arrow to move on. This brings you to the what sound option. Step Seven: You can either record a sound using a microphone on your computer, which is easy by clicking the microphone button, pressing the record button and speaking then pressing stop. You can also upload an mp3 or wav file the same way you uploaded your picture. Step Eight: Once you have your sound you click next and you can watch your blabberize. If you have anything you want to change you can go back and do it now, if not click next. Step Nine: It askes you to title and discribe your wiki. You can also tag people in it (this is your tagging your blabberize "friend" who helped create your project), and you can mark it as private and only your "friends" can see it. You could also mark it as "mature" but for our use, this shouldn't be needed. When finished click save. Step Ten: Now you can click "share it" which gives you an embed code you can copy and paste on other websites. You can click "like it" and it stores it in your liked files on blabberize, so you can store other peoples blabberize projects if they could be useful to your classroom. You can click "I want this on video" which will convert it into a flash file for free, which you can save to your computer. You can also edit, delete and object (which will flag content like mature, copyright, abusive, or other).
 * How It Works**:

- It can be a creative tool used in presenting information. -Once you figure it out, its pretty easy. -They are considering putting lesson plans online for utilizing blabberize in the classroom -More then one person in an image can talk -It's FREE
 * Pros**:

-You have to have a microphone on your computer or have a mp3 or wav. file you want to use, because the phone recording option has been disabled. -Your picture must be upright when you upload it, there is no way to turn it. -It can be confusing because I found no directions on the site itself for how to use blabberize. -If you don't like the sound of your own voice, it could be an issue.
 * Cons:**


 * How It Can Be Applied To The Classroom**:

You can use it to give instruction while you hand out materials, you can use it to teach about a historical figure or a famous author using a picture of them and having them speak in first person. Another option is to use it as a class project, having your students create blabberize presentations.

Similar technologies are fotobabble.com- allows you to share on facebook with a direct upload link and is basically blabberize without the moving mouth, so it loses the animation aspect. It is more designed for a professional look. vocaroo.com- Is supposed to send voice picture emails, but I couldn't even get the page to load.
 * How It Compares To Similar Technology**:

=__**Tech Tip # 18 - Carl Mummert**__=

Voki.com by http://www.voki.com/

http://youtu.be/pZwQTm_5s6Q Voki Classroom video

http://www.voki.com/pickup.php?scid=4578876&height=267&width=200 Pres B.

http://www.voki.com/pickup.php?scid=4290737&height=267&width=200 Prof. M.

__**What is it:**__ Voki.com is a website where anyone can create an Avatar, give it a voice and share it with your friends. Voki.com is a free site that was created by a company called Oddcast in 2006. It was envisioned as a teaching website where teachers could make avatars and have them talk to the students with brief 60 second clips as a way to keep the kids interested and make for a more fun classroom. It is a creative and interactive way of connecting with the students and using technology as well. Earlier this year, Oddcast came out with a improved pay site called Voki classroom. This is the site teachers would be much more interested in. Voki Classroom is very similar to our own Desire 2 learn (D2L) system we use.

__**How it works:**__ The main concept of voki is the avatars that the user can create. It only takes a few minutes to create an avatar out of the choices available. Voki has a template system for you to create your voki and to personalize it. The choices are in categories such as famous people, animals, cartoons, etc... Once you pick a base, you can customize it to a certain extent. The site does have limitations on what you can do, but it does allow you to import music and voice recordings as well as pictures for the background of the avatar.

Once you create your avatar, you then add up to 60 seconds of commentary on voki and 90 seconds on voki classroom. You can do this 4 ways, by typing it in, calling in on the phone, attaching a microphone to the computer or importing a file from your own computer. After you have the message attached to your avatar, you can save it and export it to just about anywhere, including all social media sites. You do need to be careful though. This site and the avatars you make are not to be used for commercial operations, they have another site for that.

__**How it can be used in the classroom:**__ The teacher can sign up for 1 or 2 year subscriptions and then can set up to 10 separate classes and 200 students with passwords at no cost to them. If needed the teacher can request additional students at no cost as well. The teacher can post assignments on the class site as well as leave messages to individual students or through the teacher's avatar to the whole class. It is an interactive way for the teacher to incorporate technology into the classroom everyday and keep it fun for the students. It promotes creativity and interaction among students and the teacher. The site is protected and secure so that is not a concern.

__**Pros:**__
 * Using technology in the classroom
 * Increase message comprehension
 * Increase levels of engagement and interest
 * Customize lesson pages
 * Privacy settings
 * Review and approve kid's voki and then post to class page
 * Lesson plan database
 * Easy to use
 * Ability to use for any grade level or subject
 * Ability to embed voki in to many sites and social media
 * 4 different ways to add voice memo to voki
 * Can have up to 10 classes and 200 students on site
 * Students do not have to register


 * __Cons:__**
 * Voki avatars have limited creativity abilities
 * Voki classroom is a pay service
 * Limited voice memos to 60 seconds for voki and 90 seconds for voki classroom
 * Might seem juvenile to high school students

__**Competitors:**__
 * Jumstart.com - educational games
 * Drivingkids.com - educational games

__**TECH TIP 19 - Dave Kilby**__
media type="youtube" key="NAIDKGv1qAM" height="315" width="560"

www.pixton.com
 * Name of Technology **

Pixton is an online comic creator that was developed in 2007 by Clive Goodinson and his wife Daina Goodinson. It was created off the idea that Clive Goodinson had for people to be able to, “share and collaborate on ideas and stories.”
 * What it is? **

Pixton offers a unique way to create comics free and easy. They have a trademarked Click-n-Drag comic concept where everything is movable and easy to modify. Using creative techniques Pixton allows people to be a comic creator and present their ideas in ways that may not have been accessible. People that may not be creative can now express themselves through Pixton.
 * How it works? **

A lot of capabilities even for the free version A very creative way to get students active and promote good creative critical thinking. Code of conduct Safe for kids Offers Pixton for educators Features that Pixton+ members have Assessment and rubrics Moderation Customize classroom settings Students email not required
 * Pros **

Can be difficult to use Could not adjust character size A lot of options can be a bad thing because there is so much to learn with this website. Definitely cannot master it in a single day, which maybe a bad thing when trying to do a project or teach a lesson. Pixton+ Costs money for educators
 * Cons **

Project-based learning Example: Have students in an English class create a Romeo and Juliet comic strip. Fun and creative way to present a topic to students.
 * How it can be used in the classroom? **

[|www.bitstrips.com] Not as many options as pixton Pixton definitely looks more creative and professional Have to pay
 * Review of other similar technologies ?**

[|www.makebeliefscomix.com] Advertises that you can write comics in multiple languages Free Not as many features Advertisements

Tech tip 22_ Amy Burger Technology-Audioboo ([])

What it is- Audioboo is a mobile and web platform that allows you to record and share audio for others to hear.

How it works- You can either voice record or upload audio into 3 minute boos. Its very simple all you need to do is pick your method of uploading (voice record or uploading existing audio). You have 3 minutes per boo for the free version and if you choose to pay you have 30 minutes media type="youtube" key="y-_HPYue4b8" height="315" width="560" Pros- Can upload any audio file. Can record your own audio Free Version

Cons- Only have three minutes Pay for better version Can only use pictures with mobile versions Mobile versions are only for android, Iphones, and nokia Profiles and boos are public

I thought of awesome uses for the classroom! 1. Use to listen to historical audio clips: Reagan to Gorbechev- Tear down this wall []

2. Listen to historical music Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy []

3. Record your own history: My life []

Similar technologies" Mobypicture: can only use with mobile phones and not all mobile phones are compatible Outshouts LLC- webpage is nonexistent or offline Phreadz- same Koollage-same


 * TECH TIP # 21 Kaitlyn Rodgers **

http://youtu.be/VxmgYzjqCu4 This video is how to do more advanced things with Audacity (this one teaches you how to Auto-tune). Name of Technology: Audacity

What is it? Audacity is a free audio editor and recorder software. Those who use Audacity are able to record video, convert tapes and records into digital recordings or CDs, edit sounds files, and mix sounds together. It promises to be like a sound board on your computer. How it works First, you start off by downloading Audacity to your computer, depending on whether you have a MAC or a PC depends on what version of Audacity you download. When I went to download the program, the website informed me that I should be using the Beta version because it works best for Windows Vista. After the download, the program will pop up and you are able to record and mix your own sounds. For the simple version of using it, all you have to is clock the record button and start talking into the microphone. I tried playing around with the mixing and cutting the sounds, but I wasn’t able to get the hang of it. Reviews have said that when you are just importing and recording simple sounds, it is a user friendly software. However, when it comes to the more technical stuff it would takes months to learn the different ways to create your own sounds. Pros: Cons How it can be used in the classroom? One way that I have seen it work in the classroom is recording sounds and passages from different stories. I used Audacity in my Chaucer class last fall. As a class, our professor was having us read the General Prologue from “The Canterbury Tales.” Instead of having us sit in class and have us read the prologue one by one, our professor had us download Audacity and record us saying it from home. She was able to listen to the entire class reading the general prologue without having to take up class time. In class, this would be a good way to get kids who do not normally participate in class to be able to answer questions and record their thoughts on the stories that we have read. I was also thinking about using this in my Online Publishing project as a way to record what students have written as a way to perform their pieces and give them life. Review of other similar technologies Garageband is a similar software that is compared to Audacity. Compared to Garageband, Audacity seems to compared better between the two. With Audacity, it works on all operating systems (Linux, Windows, and Mac), while Garageband only works on Mac.Compared to Garageband, Audacity is free and their are more features to Audacity. You are able to cut, paste, and loop different sounds and also change the pitch and tempo of the music that you are dealing with. Audacity also allows for your sound to be save as different files, and Garageband only allows AAC, MP3, and MIDI.
 * The software is free to downloads
 * It’s simple enough to use in the classroom
 * For people who know how to use audio editors, it performs at professional standards
 * Different ways that you can import sound (microphone, tapes).
 * <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Imports and exports many different sound files (wav., aif., and mp3).
 * <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Could also work as an mp3 player
 * <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Good to novice or advanced use.
 * <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000000; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">No publishing options. The most that you are able to do with Audacity is save is as a wav. file or mp3 and upload it to our publishing site.