#9 Virtually Online

Second Life trends in education: The benefits of simulated environments in learning have previously been demonstrated. I have participated in Quest Atlantis which is a 3D multi-user learning environment specifically designed to immerse children, ages 9-14, in meaningful inquiry tasks. A 3D virtual world probably allows for a user to be more deeply immersed in the environment and therefore experience more "real" interaction and engagement with the people and objects in the environment. There is still plenty of scope for experimentation of virtual worlds in education.

#8 iGoogle

I had used iGoogle previously, but played around again today and found some new gadgets. I was very happy when I found Australian news as I had trouble finding Aus news last time. I also looked for gadgets with an educational aspect but still looking, so this would be my only suggestion. Still, it seems to pull together information that I can use, so will see if I find it more useful this time round. As for Googleplex, I would you like to work in a flexible environment where I have more control in managing my own projects - but for a teacher, that's what school holidays are for, aren't they? :-}

#7 Google Book Search

Google Book Search is a great tool with much potential. There is the sense that Google is the new Microsoft in their success in attracting and keeping users for their products. Google seems to have done this by creating products in the clound that fulfil a need (a need that the users didn't necessarily know about before). And, just when the user thinks she might try a product from someone else that is Google...+, she finds that Google has developed some other nifty thing so she hangs around in their space for a little longer. Switched-on marketing I guess. Microsoft seems to be able to hold their own in machine based applications though.  <edit 24/9> Note this article from USA Today of 21/9/09 Microsoft takes notice as more people use free Google Docs <end edit>

I am still trying to figure out how to use Google book search in an educational setting other than for the purposes of my own research, particularly the cross-referencing. I might read other's posts and reap the benefit of collective wisdom!

#6 Google Maps

Use Google maps to find businesses, addresses and places of interest and view them by map, satellite or streetview. You can also get directions and distances from place to place for walking or driving. Google maps  also has a feature where a user can add a point of interest, details and photos to the map for others to see. Go to Google maps Australia. I have found Google maps very useful, from booking accomodation; to finding the restaurant phone number when I couldn't remember the restaurant's name but knew where it was located; to following a friends overseas trip.

#5 Google Docs

Discoveries about Google Docs

#4 Web 2.0

Web 2.0 describes an ongoing evolution in the usage of the web and internet and ways that people are dealing with the volume of data. It also shows that connecting and connections are key needs (nothing new here!). In our rush to try new things, I don't think we are always seeing these connections changing the human condition for the better, but no doubt this will come. I found the TED talk that Tim Berners-Lee did on reframing the web to unlock our data and the way we use it together interesting: Tim Berners Lee on the next web

#2 Create a blog: Practicing what I preach teach!

Year 10 students in a class I am teaching are currently blogging their way through their programming project. Now it's my turn! I have reservations with disclosing my thoughts to all and sundry - I am sure others of my generation also have these reservations - is this because of a lack of confidence (what are my thoughts worth?), old-fashioned (but useful) social inhibition or wanting to retain control of who these thoughts are shared with and when?