This week for class we were to explore a new Web 2.0 application/tool that hasn't been brought up in class yet. I decided to research and explore QR codes since I've bene quite intrigued by them but didn't know much about them. QR (Quick Response) codes are 2D bar codes that can store much more information than the tradition bar code that you see on products at the store. Now that I know what they are and how to create them, I am looking at how I can use them in the classroom. I've seen blog posts from people explaining how they use them in the classroom - to share answers to worksheets with students, more information about a particular topic, a link to a YouTube video, create a scavenger hunt around school, and so much more.
The other assignment that is coming due next class is to create a Google site or a wiki. I have many wikis for my classes as well as my tech coach position where I share information/links/resources as well as my embedded Google calendar to let the teachers know where I will be & when. Instead of creating a new wiki or site, I have been spending my time re-vamping my existing wiki to make it more user-friendly and easy to navigate. It is always difficult spending time on something that you aren't sure is going to get used by other people but even if other people aren't utilizing the resources/information, at least it is helping me stay organized and definitely cuts down on the prep time for me when I have to give presentations or inservices on various tech related topics.
I'll have to check out the 2D bar. I know Bill mentioned the other night how hard it is to find great sites, for teaching. Some of the words you'd think are odd for a teaching site, or useful site for education purposes. I love all the ideas and sites that we have all shared!
ReplyDeleteI'd love to see your class wikis Becky! I decided to go with Google site for my page, and I have to agree with you that getting the page to be user-friendly is probably the most important part of developing a wiki. I've spent so much time rearranging my site that I'm getting frustrated with it's design! I'm trying to put myself in the shoes of my students and trying to determine what would be the easiest way for me to locate information on the site. BTW, I love how you added your tweets to your blog! You're so tech-savvy!
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