Week 12 Assignment

Glogster


     After creating and exploring my Glogster account I have found that this web 2.0 tool is something that could be extremely beneficial to use in the classroom.  Glogster in the simplest terms is a website that is used to create these sort of online "posters" or "fliers".  The templates within Glogster allow users to customize their posters to have text, video, pictures, audio, and also the ability to customize color size and shape.  Glogster is also great because it allows for users to collaborate with one another in a virtual classroom style setting that is controlled by a teacher.  Glogster is a great way to provide differentiated instruction for learners of various levels, from elementary school straight on through college.  Below is a t-chart analyzing the educational affordances of Glogster.

Technical Features of Glogster and the educational affordances

               Features of Glogster                                                Affordances

The ability to add and edit text boxes	Allows students to work on ELA skills while working on creating Glogs in various subject areas.
The ability to send messages and comment on other students Glogs	Creates a collaborative and technology based assignment that also increases reading and writing skills.
The ability to add pictures and videos to Glogs.	Allows for more differentiated instruction due to the allowance of different types of media platforms.
The ability for teachers to set up and manage all students within classes.	Allows teachers to create a monitored and stable environment to carry out lessons.
The ability to link Glogs so that they can be viewed by anyone publicly.	Allows teachers and students to share their work with their peers, friends, administrators and parents.
The ability to customize and design Glogs and create specific posters to establish themes.	Allows students to use visual and structural aids to help viewers gain knowledge of the theme and tone of their Glog.
Ability for teachers to access the educators resource library	Allows teachers to explore the various uses of Glogster while showing examples of what other teachers have created.
Ability to search and post links within the Glog	Allows students to utilize various ELA and technology skills to enhance their work through use of the internet and search engines.