Wikis

     A Wiki is a Web site where individuals can view, edit, and add information to a particular posted piece. Have you ever heard of Wikipedia, the free online encylcopedia? Well, that is a type of well known Wiki. People volunteer to write Wikis and other people can add to them using the Internet. Although people writing this information do not have use their real names. Also, another downfall to this type of media is people can use inaccurate information or even delete information and vandalize the site.
     A Wiki can contain movies, sounds, and pictures. Wikis can also be used in the classroom for students use, such as: collaborative projects, debates, brainstorming, digital stories, and electronic portfolios. Teachers can use Wikis for meeting notes, agendas, journal articles, and textbook editing. I am actually creating a Wiki currently in another class which is composed of journal articles from members of the class. It allows us to view the articles students have chosen and read their summary of the article. I believe it is a great and interesting tool for students and teachers.
     This link allows you to get further insight on creating Wikis and their uses: http://www.wikispaces.com/
Also, below I have provided a video for teachers to become more familiar with Wikis and their use in the classroom.

What is a Podcast?

A Podcast is an audio broadcast that are usually vocal but often contain music. These audio broadcasts are posted and distributed online. A Podcast allows you to publish your own radio program on the Internet. The topics posted can range anywhere from politics to personal matters. Any individual who has a computer, MP3 player, cell phone, or handheld device can create one. Here is a video that provides a tutorial of creating a Podcast.

    

    

Using Podcasts in the classroom can be very beneficial for the students and the teacher. Teachers can create them for a variety of purposes. The topics can also range from History subject matter to opinionated views. Teachers can also record their lectures and students can download them to recap what was discussed in classs. For additional information on using Podcasts in the classroom take a look at the video.

Blogs and Their Use in the Classroom

     A blog is an online text entry written by one student or a group of students. The page you are currently looking at now is a blog. This page consists of information about emerging web technology and the use of them in the classroom. Many blogs may contain entries that one may read in a personal diary or be composed of entries such as a newsletter. Also, peopele can create blogs to express strong interest on certain topics. Whatever the reason blogs can be interesting, informational, and creative.
     Students can use blogs for journal entries to increase writing and technology skills. Students will post the desired information to be viewed at a particular site. After this is completed, other students can comment and express ideas related to the subject matter blogged. A blog is a very motivating activity that encourages students to write, experiment with new ideas, and share comments and feedback with other students. Students can also use blogs to discuss public forum issues with a community of students.
    Overall, blogs are a great and easy way to expose ideas, opinions, or express one's self. Anybody can create one that has access to a computer and the internet. And best of all, it is free!