Web+2.0+Tools

= Web 2.0 Tools in the Traveling the World lesson plan =


 * //What is Web 2.0//?**

As the World Wide Web has evolved, there have been different "types" of webs. First, there was Web 1.0. It is still used today; however, in an educational setting, Web. 2.0 pages will have a greater ability to engage the student in the learning process. Web 2.0 is interactive which makes learning more fun for the student. In the //Traveling the World// lesson plan, students will use Web 2.0 as they use Google Docs and Presentation to assemble historical and contemporary information of the city they currently live in. This is shown in steps #3-6 of the lesson plan. Additionally, the students will also create a Wiki that will include all of the mini-projects and other tools they use to create their large project. This is highlighted in step #1 of the lesson plan.

Here is the rubric for Web 2.0 projects (with the exception of the Wiki; that rubric is on The Lesson Plan page):

Here are the differences in Web 1.0 and Web 2.0


 * Web 1.0 is static**—a webpage with no interaction (i.e. a syllabus page; information is listed but there isn’t really anyway for the viewer to communicate)


 * Web 2.0 is flexible**—a webpage that can be edited or altered by the public (depending on the user settings); a Wiki is an example of Web 2.0. Another example would be something like D2L where users can leave comments or have discussions with others (but can’t change the information) In Web 2.0, is based on //cloud computing//-- everything is “stored in the clouds”. The programs are always available to any user at any location at anytime and are usually free. A disc is never required for use or setup.
 * **Cloud Computing**--an example would be something like FotoBabble or Voki, Wiki's, or Google Docs; resources and information are provided to computers and other devices. All programs are web-based only (you don't need a special software CD to use it).

Essentially, both Web 1.0 and Web 2.0 can have their uses in a class. For example, Web 1.0 can be used as students gather information for research they are doing. It is more "lecture" than discussion. On the other hand, Web 2.0 has its uses when teachers want students to be able to converse with them, other users of the website, other classes, or their classmates. Frequently, teachers are having their classes build Wiki's based on what they are learning in class. As a group project, Wiki's are great because individual members can do in an contribute their information. Similarly, Google Docs offers a great option as well. In Google Docs, not only can students contribute information, teachers can also monitor how much individual students contributed and participated. This would be very beneficial in terms of assessment. Google Spreadsheet is another Web 2.0 tool that acts just like Microsoft PowerPoint, but all group members can contribute easily as they do not all have to be huddled around the same computer.

Finally, here is information that was discussed at the Horizon 2010 summit. Information discussed revolved around new forms of technology that are becoming popular. Here is the .pdf from the website
 * Horizon 2010--Digital Media Literacy
 * Mobile Computing--conversation from a mobile device
 * Open content--repurpose something for your own use; using something that someone else has created for your own use
 * E-Books
 * Simple Augmented Reality--combines virtual and reality together
 * Gesture Based Computing--Wii, Xbox Kinect

Finally, here are 2 articles that highlight the use of Web 2.0 tools in classrooms: Wiki Use Google Docs