Moodle vs. D2L vs. Blackboards

After splitting up into groups and researching the different options of programs that are currently available for a classroom to use, I am now very informed about different types of programs such as Moodle, Blackboads, and D2L. I found that it is much more efficient and realistic to use Moodle because it is simple and free. It allows more options for customizing, specifically for your classroom. D2L is would be my second choice because it is cheaper than Blackboard, although Blackboard has more features. Personally, I have the most experience with D2L, simply because it is the current program that St. Cloud State University is using. I think it is very simple to use and operate, so I would consider using it in my classroom. The last one was Blackboard, I would love to have one in the classroom but with the amounts of funding teachers are limited to, I don't think it is very realistic to get one in your classroom. Overall, I thought it was interesting to learn about the differences between the three programs.

Google Docs vs. Zoho Writer

For tonight's class, we were assigned to become familiar with and compare two free alternative word processing programs. The two programs were Google Docs and Zoho Writer. They are very similar to "Microsoft Office," except they seem to be a condensed version and don't have as many features. I found that it was easier to use Google Docs because the toolbar was more like Microsoft Word, although Zoho seemed to have more features. It could be very useful in the classroom because I could have my class use that program, which allows them to save and retrieve their documents from any computer. After completing this assignment, I am now fully able to create and use documents on both Google Docs and Zoho writer.

Bloglines

Tonight I created a Bloglines account. I think it will be very useful for my blog because it allows me to check and see if anyone posted on my blog by checking my new Bloglines account. I don't know how much I will be using it for my personal life, but I know it will benefit me in the classroom.

Homerun Hankie

Every year, my family and I purchase season tickets and attend many Twins games. I have grown up playing and watching baseball and my entire family, including my grandma are avid Twins fans. I can't remember one year where I was unable to attend at least one game. Hopefully I will be able to afford a trip to Fort Meyers, Flordia soon so I can watch the Twin's Spring Training.

Image Generator

Image Generator is a really cool program that allows the teacher or student to have fun and make a wide variety of images that fit their style. It is also useful for making labels for certain projects students are working on.

I know it will benefit me too because at the beginning of each semester when I don’t know all of the students names yet, I will be able to make name tags for them.

Flickr II

One of the most useful things I have found on Flickr is the styles of slide shows. It allows a variety of things to be put on, such as pictures from the Internet or pictures from your personal camera.

I also think my students will have fun with Flickr too, because it has many ways for them to set up their online picture gallery.