Blog Post #6

 At first, I did not like Diigo, I thought it seemed a really complicated and generally unnecessary tool.  I have definitely used Source compilation applications that were just easier to use. But once you get the hang of it a lot of its features are very convenient in terms of being able to bookmark on access specific information within a source. I really like the bookmark and sticky note feature for this reason,  especially when sharing with other people who have not to spend as much time with the source this function is incredibly helpful. I think the interface of the website could use some updates but generally, I think it's a great collaborative website for classrooms. I would have definitely been a lot more lost and confused if there were no tutorials on how to use the different features.

I have honestly had a really great experience with blogging. I think it's a really great unstructured space for me to be able to write down my thoughts in a more chronological matter rather than a logical manner. I feel like I can kind of write in a stream of consciousness more like I'm having a conversation with another student. The questions are always plentiful and a lot of them feel more open-ended so I can add my opinions fully. Throughout the blogging process, I have learned the importance of saying how you feel and admitting when you might need help with something. Some of the Technologies and projects we do and use in his class are confusing and require collaborative work in order to have a full understanding and that's okay. I think that blogging can be one of the most effective ways that students communicate with one another. 

I think an interesting Web 2.0 tool that teachers can utilize especially for younger students is Wordle. This is an application where you put in words that relate to one another and it generated other words and phrases that are associated with those words. This can be really helpful for teaching concepts or new content so students can get familiar with the language. The best part of the application is that students are able to pick a shape that the words are presented in. Students can pick the number of words, the colors they are, and what picture that they form. If they are learning about black history month, the application can take words associated with black history and important figures and put those words and phrases so they outline the head of Malcolm X. This can be something students keep and use as a reference. 

Link: https://wordart.com/