Web 2.0 Tools

Web 2.0 Tools

Introduction

Web 2.0 tools are innovative technologies that allow users the ability to interact and communicate with each other (Fractus Learning, 2016). Web 2.0 tools provide opportunities for students to explore a variety of content areas, connect with people from around the world, and create new projects and products. Students can create polls, blogs, and webpages that highlight what they’re learning or their interests. Web 2.0 tools engage students with their peers in the learning process and develops a deeper understanding of content (Ozcinar et al., 2020). Web 2.0 technologies have shaped education and changed learning in the digital age.

Fanschool

Fanschool is a Web 2.0 tool that allows users the ability to publish, play, and produce portfolios (Fanschool, 2023). Students use their higher-order thinking skills of creation to produce work and share knowledge. Students are given ultimate voice and choice as they create blogs and share new ideas. For example, students who are studying alternative energy resources could use their research to create a blog that highlights the importance of their selected alternative energy resource. Students could provide a section on the blog that allows readers a chance to comment or ask questions on the topic.

Twitter

Twitter is a social media tool that can be used for education and research. Students can connect with and interview people and experts from around the world. Twitter stays up to date with current events and trending topics and issues. Students can conduct research and interact with people almost instantly. Students can create their own hashtag on Twitter and can create live discussions with people from around the world.

Twitter can be used for research by creating polls with Web 2.0 tools such as Polls Everywhere. Creating a poll for research purpose allows students to engage in their higher-order thinking skill of evaluating. For example, students could create a poll on the best alternative energy resource. Students examine the information provided in the poll and use it to make judgements. Creating a poll on Twitter is a beneficial tool because it broadens the audience of the typical student. A public poll on Twitter has the possibility to reach millions of users. This is a great way for students to obtain statistical results on a given topic (Fractus Learning, 2017).

References

Bates, L. (2016, November 1). 10 of the best Web 2.0 tools for teachers. Fractus Learning. https://www.fractuslearning.com/web-2-0-tools-for-teachers/

Bates, L. (2017, January 25). 5 great ways students can use Twitter for research. Fractus Learning. https://www.fractuslearning.com/students-twitter-for-research/

Ozcinar, Z., Sakhieva, R. G., Pozharskaya, E. L., Popova, O. V., Melnik, M. V., & Matvienko, V. V. (2020). Student’s Perception of Web 2.0 Tools and Educational Applications. International Journal of Emerging Technologies in Learning, 15(23), 220–233. https://doi.org/10.3991/ijet.v15i23.19065