Using+Tools

In an [|interview] with librarian Joyce Valenza, she describes learning using web 2.0 tools:

"How can Web 2.0 tools such as blogs, wikis, del.icio.us, and GoogleDocs enhance and transform the teaching of K-12 information literacy/fluency skills? Among the most powerful applications we've used so far:

**Blogs** to record, manage and reflect on major research projects. These make the chaotic process more transparent and more interactive. They allow teacher, librarian, mentor, and peer intervention. They can also prevent research disasters.

**Wiki** pathfinders allow teachers, librarians and learners to collaborate as they construct guides for projects and lead students to sources they might not discover independently. We've moved most of our lit circle activity to blogs. Each circle manages its discussion, setting up timelines, establishing categories. Our teachers love that they can easily assess the level of participation and quickly gather what any group or student had to say regarding characterization.

We love using tools like **Animoto** and **Voicethread** for preparing powerful media presentations.We use GoogleDocs for group writing and to allow teachers and librarians to suggest edits.

We are exploring **ZohoPolls** for original research as well. Students work hard to craft solid questions and make sense of the data they collect.We've recognized what our misuse of PowerPoint has done to our school. We are considering new presentation options and tools, as well as the concept of "presentation zen." How can we best connect with an audience? What does effective storytelling look like in the 21st century?"

The challenges of these new tools: "The last two years saw dramatic change in the information landscape. The change forces us to examine new questions:

How do we respect intellectual property in a mash-up universe?

What do creative, effective information products look like?

How do we balance issues of privacy and safety in an information landscape that busts through borders and invites us to share our ideas and our work?

How do we use these new tools to participate creatively in global discussion?

How do we best exploit exciting new opportunities for authorship and audience?

What "old world" tools and skills need to be carried over into our new projects?"