The document discusses several tools and techniques for online collaboration and communication including blogs, wikis, Google Docs, VoiceThread, Skype, Ning, Delicious, ePals, and Twitter. It provides brief descriptions of how each tool can be used, whether it is easy or more advanced to use, and whether content is public or limited to a specific group. The document contrasts easier but more limited tools like blogs, wikis, and Slideshare with more versatile but complex tools like VoiceThread, Splashcast, and Ning.

1. Tools and Techniques June 5, 2008

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9. Blog : a website that allows readers to comment on the content WordPress MU (internal blog): blogs.micds.org Public but only MICDS students/faculty can comment Every student and teacher has a blog Students post to their specific classes WordPress can accept text, images, audio and video

10. Wiki : a webpage that can be viewed and edited by multiple authors Media Wiki (internal): wiki.micds.org Public but only MICDS students & faculty can edit Requires some knowledge of wiki syntax WikiSpaces (external): wikispaces.com Public, Protected, or Private No syntax necessary; accepts multimedia

11. Google Docs : free web-based word processor and spreadsheet which allow you share and collaborate online. Users must have a Google account Can upload Word/Excel/PowerPoint files or start from scratch (Office 2003 only) Spreadsheets can be turned into forms for collecting information

12. VoiceThread : users can upload images, video, PowerPoint, PDF and Word files Viewers can leave audio, video, and text comments VoiceThreads can be public or private Teachers can purchase VoiceThread Ed for classroom use; this simplifies adding users and managing projects

13. EASY BUT LIMITED HARDER BUT VERSATILE Slideshare allows you to upload PowerPoint and PDF files to share on your blog or wiki PowerPoints will not have effects or audio Splashcast is similar but is far more versatile (i.e. images, audio, video, text, etc.) Projects are truly multi-media

14. Skype is a free service for making VoIP audio and video calls Ning social networks exist for all personal and professional interests Delicious is a social bookmarking tool ePals is an email-based system for finding schools/teachers for collaboration Twitter is a tool for creating a PLN (personal learning network)