Webs, Blogs, and Wikis
After reviewing the different options to represent your classroom, it seems like Wiki's like PBS works has the best setup for classes to use. I like the way you can set up accounts for access and how students can post objects to the pages. I also notice that there are many professional differences between the different choices. I use Weebly and I find that it is very simple to use. I do feel like it is the least professional looking of the choices. We had the option of using the district system at Coopersville for a while, but it didn’t work well and it was very restrictive. Many teachers set up pages but didn't maintain/update them.
After reviewing the different options to represent your classroom, it seems like Wiki's like PBS works has the best setup for classes to use. I like the way you can set up accounts for access and how students can post objects to the pages. I also notice that there are many professional differences between the different choices. I use Weebly and I find that it is very simple to use. I do feel like it is the least professional looking of the choices. We had the option of using the district system at Coopersville for a while, but it didn’t work well and it was very restrictive. Many teachers set up pages but didn't maintain/update them.
My Online Presence- (ISTE 1a,b, 3a, 4c-Facilitate and Inspire) Wikstrom.Weebly.com Also known by the students as Wikstrom Farms
This Weebly site has been my online presence for a number of years now. I have tried a number of sites, but I find Weebly is the fastest and easiest to update. It gives me the freedom to set things up in a way that even my Kindergarden and First graders can navigate with little training.
This Weebly site has been my online presence for a number of years now. I have tried a number of sites, but I find Weebly is the fastest and easiest to update. It gives me the freedom to set things up in a way that even my Kindergarden and First graders can navigate with little training.
- About Me- Is my front page. I always have personal pictures on the page so students connect with me and can recognize my page even if they are pre- reading level.
- Class Information- (ISTE 3a) My classes consist of K-5th grade so I have a general statement on the front page. I am currently working on a page that has all of my curriculum maps on it for 3rd, 4th, and 5th. I have had these in the past, but they have been changed greatly in the last year so I took them down in order to update.
- Homework and Assignments- (ISTE 1a, c 2a,b 3b, c) I have heard from a lot of parents that they depend on my pages for science fair and project links. I'ts nice with Google docs, students can start a project at school and if they get behind, they can work on it at home with their Google Docs and the outlines on my website. I also post student projects for the parents to see. These are movies, slide shows, and pod casts that the students can't bring home.
- Resources- (ISTE 2a, b, c)I have numerous links relating to different assignments or resources. I use these during my classes so the students don't have to write the entire address in to get there.
- Collaboration- (ISTE 1b, 2a,b 3b,c) - We use Google Docs/Drive for sharing and collaboration rather than my web site. I love Google and really value the power it gives to share and collaborate on everything from group presentations to things as simple as turning in work. I used to have a blog and other areas on my site for sharing and communication, but Google is so much easier to control and track. All students in our District have a Google account that uses their school passwords.