Hello all! This is my technology assessment of tools that I learned about and discovered while taking ED271. This class opened my eyes to various technology tools that I never knew existed. I have already begun to use some of these tools with other courses and projects and I know I will use many in the future, especially in the classroom.
1. Moodle
Moodle is a site that allows students to interact with their instructors of courses they are currently taking. Through Moodle they can access the instructor’s presentations/class lectures, assignments, instructions, and they can also receive and submit assignments through Moodle. Students can also message each other or their professor through Moodle. I was introduced to Moodle almost 2 years ago and I have found it to be convenient and effective. It is complex at first and may require some introductory instruction, even to those who are technologically literate. I like Moodle and it has become helpful, especially when I am unable to attend a class lecture day. I can usually see what went on that day through Moodle. I give it a 5/5.
2. Firefox
I have tried Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari, and Google Chrome. All web browses had their strengths and weaknesses, and Firefox was actually the browser I used to love when I had a PC. I have been a Mac user for about 2 years now and I have to admit, my favorites have changed. Although Firefox is definitely fast and a good browser, I prefer Google Chrome because of how fast and convenient it is. I definitely like Firefox more than Internet Explorer though. I give Firefox a 3/5.
3. Google Apps
There were various Google Apps, which I was unaware about before taking ED271. I have always used Gmail and I love it. I did not, however, use my Google plus account and did not know much about Google Drive and Google Hangout. I will use these apps often and I know it will come in handy. I love the quality and convenience and highly appreciate that it is all free. I rate Google Apps in general a 5/5.
4. Live Binders
Live Binders are online tools that claim to be as useful as an actual binder. I personally enjoy this tool as well. You can create a “binder” very easily and add websites and different research to it. You can personalize it and save it as well. It is very easy to use and very organized and neat. It is highly convenient for Teachers to organize their online tools and websites whether it is for lessons or personal use. Live Binder accounts are free and easily shared and accessed. This was my first time using a Live Binder and I am grateful for discovering it in ED271. I give it a 5/5.
5. Prezi
Prezi is by far one of my favorite tools for presentations. It beats out PowerPoint by a lot! Prezi can be a bit complex at first, but once you get the hang of it, it can actually be fun and easy. The outcome of a presentation is definitely worth it. Compared to Power Points, Prezi is much more entertaining and organized. This is a tool I will use for other class presentations and in the future for lessons I will teach my own students. I do still enjoy Power Point, but since discovering Prezi it has been my go-to for presentations. I give Prezi a 5/5.
6. Pinterest
I have used various blogging sites like Tumblr and Xanga and Pinterest is definitely something I fell in love with! It’s so different in it’s own way and I can literally find creative ideas for everything! Recipes, birthday presents, desserts, fashion ideas, quotes, inspiring pictures- you name it, someone has “pinned” it. It is so convenient. I love it so much, I downloaded the app on my phone and check it almost every day! I give Pinterest a 5/5.
ooVoo is something I have heard about, but never tried. I have done video conferencing with friends and relatives via skype and Facetime but never used ooVoo. They are all basically the same concept. It is great because it is free! You can video conference with up to 12 people and even watch a TV show or game live at the same time. It is a great tech tool. I do, however, prefer Facetime and Skype over ooVoo because of the quality. I feel that it is clearer and I can hear voices better. ooVoo is still great nonetheless. I give it a 3/5.
This class was what exposed me to Wiggio. I had no idea such a website existed. I found it highly convenient. With many group projects we are given, it is hard to communicate with group members outside of class time, especially with everyone’s busy schedules. Wiggio actually allows you to create an online group with your members who have accounts making it easy to communicate all together and share files. Also, whenever somebody posts something on your wiggio group, it automatically alerts you on your email. This made it easy to figure out meeting times and get our project done. Wiggio is also available as an App on iTunes. I give Wiggio a 5/5.
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