Browsers, Blogs and DIY Websites

Browsers

Access is the key to exploring the internet, and one that we often think little about. If you access the internet with an Apple product you likely used Safari because it was already installed. If you access the internet through another device, you may have had to choose which browser you wanted to install. Some common browsers available are Chrome by Google, Firefox by Mozilla and Internet Explorer by Microsoft.

     

My preferred browser is Google Chrome. I have found that most of the applications that I need to access on the web runs well on Chrome, but that is not true of all sites. Be aware that some things may not work on certain browsers. One class that I took had required videos that would only play using the Firefox browser and my husband has some applications that must be accessed using Internet Explorer to run correctly.

Google Chrome

Tool:	1	2	3	4	5	Totals
Simplicity					X
Learning Support					X
Versatility/Adaptability					X
Safety/Security					X
Availability					X	25

This browser is simple to use and students can access virtually anything they need. It will allow you to access a variety of websites and it is free to use. 

Blogs

Weblogs are a great way for teachers and students to publish their work and collaborate with their peers. While I am fond of using Blogger for my own personal projects, I chose to explore the site Edublogs. These are a simple version of a website and can be created easily with prefab templates. You can then customize a blog with your own colors, images and themes to make it your own. They are a great way to give students a voice.

Edublogs

Tool:	1	2	3	4	5	Totals
Simplicity				X
Learning Support			X
Versatility/Adaptability			X
Safety/Security					X
Availability					X	20

This site seems fairly simple to use, but it does take a little time and work to set up student accounts for security reasons. It's purpose is mainly for publishing and sharing writing and though they could share on any topic assigned, this site is limited in the kinds of learning support it can offer based on the authors. It is very safe as student work can be kept private and the site is free and available on any browser or mobile device.

DIY Websites

In 21st century education, websites are a great way to communicate and share information with parents and students. Fortunately for us, there are many different sites available to help you design your own website. I used Weebly to create a website of my own. Creating a website is very similar to creating a blog. You can customize your site for any topic you wish and include whatever information you feel is important. For teachers, this could include rules, schedules, contact information and current classroom events.

Weebly

Tool:	1	2	3	4	5	Totals
Simplicity			X
Learning Support				X
Versatility/Adaptability					X
Safety/Security			X
Availability					X	20

It takes time to build a website and customize it for your needs. The level of learning support provided depends on what support you add, so this aspect is truly up to the designer. However, a blank slate means that you can create the site to include as many topics (or pages) that you want. The site is as safe as you choose to make it, but they are public and it is important to remember that fact when sharing student pictures or work. You should always check your district's technology and privacy policies. This website creator is free for their basic service, but there are upgrades available for a fee.