Thing 9: Databases & Searches

Teaching students how to properly use search engines can be challenging.   Most people have become so used to Google, that it is difficult to use anything else.  However, for young students it is vital that they learn to properly use search engines.  The addition of "kid friendly" search engines is a great way of teaching searching skills without accidentaly accessing inappropriate material. 

One of the search engines I selected to explore was KidRex .   This search engine while geared to younger children is an excellent choice for kids of all ages.  I am going to begin using it with my students. 

Thing 8: Collaborating, Connecting, Sharing



The Internet provides many opportunities for collaborating, connecting and sharing.  Things that were not possible online a few years ago are available for us today. 
One of my favorite ways of collaborating and sharing is Google Docs.  (It now goes by the name Google Drive)

I have been using Google Docs for some years now and it helped me proof read my sister's college papers.  She has dyslexia and has always needed someone to look over her papers.   The way is works for us is that my sister sends me her completed writing and I read it and highlight letters and sentences that need to be corrected.  It is awesome to be able to edit while she corrects at the same time.   Using this tool has worked wonders for my sister's writing.  She has been able to write her college papers while gaining experience on using online technology tools.  Google Docs is an invaluable tool to assist my sister in working with her disability.   I have also used Google Docs for group projects in graduate school.  And it makes connecting and working with your fellow students, so easy.

In keeping with the themes of connecting and sharing, Diigo is one of my go-to tools.   I save important websites and research tools here while learning about new websites from other colleagues. 
These cool tools make collaborating, connecting, and sharing so much easier.