Thing 9 - Web 2.0 application exploration, and a little social networking

Purpose:  To explore the wide variety of free Web 2.0 tools available for use in education.

Throughout this program, we’ve explored just a small sampling of the new internet tools and websites that are empowering users with the ability to create and share content. A recent estimate placed the number of Web 2.0 tools at somewhere between 300 & 500 and new ones appearing every day.  Only time will only tell which of these new collaborative, social networking and information tools will remain on top.  One thing is for sure, they're not going to go away anytime soon.

In addition to the variety of Web 2.0 tools, the integration of social networking with various Web 2.0 tools is another trend that is occurring.  Social networking focuses on building online communities of people who share interests and/or activities, or who are interested in exploring the interests and activities of others. Most social network services are web based and provide a variety of ways for users to interact, such as e-mail and instant messaging services.  Many social networking systems such as MySpace and Facebook have typically been used by young people.  However, realizing the power of social networking tools, people of all ages are now participating in social networking.  One of the most popular social networking tools among adults is Ning – www.ning.com.  Ning includes customize web pages, forums, posts, and direct messaging of friends.

Take a minute to read a little more about Web 2.0 trends written here - http://www.stevehargadon.com/2008/03/web-20-is-future-of-education.html . 

Discovery Activities

1. Explore the variety of Web 2.0 tools from the following lists:

• Web 2.0 Award Winner 2008 - http://www.seomoz.org/web2.0
• The Complete Web 2.0 Directory - http://www.go2web20.net/
• Internet for Classrooms - http://www.internet4classrooms.com/web2.htm
• Web 2.0 for the teacher - http://www.kn.att.com/wired/fil/pages/listweb20s.html

2. Explore the various Ning networks from the following list and join at least one:

• Classroom 2. 0 - http://classroom20.ning.com
• School 2.0 - http://school20.ning.com
• Library 2.0 -  http://library20.ning.com/

• Necc Ning - http://necc2008.ning.com/
• Ning in Education - http://education.ning.com/
• Search Ning and find one you’d like to join.

Blog Post: Thing 9 – Exploring Web 2.0 Tools:  Write about the five tools, Nings, or websites you found that will be useful in your teaching. What did you like or dislike about the tool? What were the site’s useful features? What tools can you use in your classroom or library?  How can these tools be used?

Curriculum Connections - http://calcurriculum.pbwiki.com/. 

Of all of the Web 2.0 tools you explored, add one or two to the Curriculum Connections wiki.  Some ideas for your class:

• Have students explore the Web 2.0 and identify how the tools can be used in the classroom.  In particular, a calendar, online sticky notes or online planners can be useful.
• Writing Assignment: Have students create their 43 things of what they want to do and then write about their future career ideas and hopes - http://www.43things.com/ .