ITEC2360

Haley Brown 1/19/2011 Overview: The purpose of this website is to sell science supplies. Content: Each item for sale is advertised extremely well. When you click on the link there is a video that shows you how to use the item as well as information on what the item is. It looks like the site is updated practically every day. Design: This website is organized very cleanly. All items are organized by categories on one side, the items in the middle, and ads on the other.

Rachel Keyes ITEC 2360 01/24/11 Good site http://www2.scholastic.com/browse/article.jsp?id=3070 Overview Scholastic is a well-known company to me because my grade school worked with scholastic; this gives the sight some extra credibility. It appears to be well organized and geared towards teachers that are interested in finding out more about literature circles and how to use them in their classrooms. The purpose of the site is to educate teachers. Content The content is an article written by a teacher who has used the literature circle in her classroom, and her experience with it. She includes an assessment sheet to go with the circle, and how to grade the students. At the end of the article she includes references and other articles with more information. The content is easy to navigate and to understand. There is a link that gives you a biography of the author; she is a teacher and a very credible source. Design There are ads for book clubs, school supply lists, and essay contests for students. There are links that provide more information about the topic. The site was updated at the beginning of 2011. The information was well organized and clear, and easy to access. All of the links are functional and provide good information.

Rachel Keyes ITEC 2360 01/24/11 Average site http://www.alternavox.net/the-graphic-novel-as-a-form-of-literature Overview This site discusses the use of the graphic novel as a form of alternative literature. The main point of the site is an article discussing the history of the graphic novel and where it is today. The audience is anyone who wants to learn more about the educational potential of the graphic novel. The article is from a Canadian site, so that could impact its usefulness to U.S. students and teachers. Content The main content of the site is the article. Other than that, there are no other links to find more information about alternative literature or graphic novels. The article is biased because the author is a reporter who has an opinion and doesn't provide the other side of the argument. The article was published in 2009, so it could be slightly outdated. Design The site has ads and pictures for the newspaper, which could be irrelevant to users from other countries. There is a biography of the author next to the article, but there is no way to contact him with questions. There is no copy right for the website itself. The information is well organized, but other than the article, there is no further information.

Rachel Keyes ITEC 2360 01/24/11 http://www.kimskorner4teachertalk.com/readingliterature/litresponse.html Average website Overview This is a site designed for teachers, giving alternative exercises to help their classes respond to literature. My overall impression is that this is an organized, helpful site. The audience would be teachers who are looking for creative and exciting ways for their students to approach literature. It's a very simple website that has links with the corresponding projects listed. Content The content of the site is well organized and listed. The links on the page go to credible sites with ideas for creative book reports, class discussions, etc. The page was last updated in 2007, so it is possible that the ideas and links could be extremely out of date by now. There are some links that no longer exist and do not work, which is one of the sites major weaknesses. The author of the site is a teacher herself, and repeatedly expresses that the ideas are not hers, and provides the credit for the real authors of the ideas. Design The design of this website is extremely plain. Other than the text and the links, there are no pictures or visual aids. The title is clear and gives the author's name and the purpose of the site. The author reminds the audience that she is merely posting these ideas and they are not hers. The site is outdated, and some of the links don't work because they do not exist anymore.

Rachel Keyes ITEC 2360 01/24/11 http://www.alternativeculture.com/index.htm Poor website Overview This site can be found by searching "alternative forms of literature" (commonly thought of as ways other than classical literature, such as graphic novels, movies, etc.) on Google. However, the purpose of this site is more to discuss alternative cultures and the negative influence that media has on society. My impression of this site is that it was made by a small magazine for a very specific audience. The audience is wary of the media and is searching for an alternative method to receive news. Content The content of this site is extremely random and scattered. At the top of the page there are quotes about being enlightened, followed by a listing of other alternative news sites, YouTube videos, and poems from different cultures about peace. All of the links work, but this site is just a random collection of information the editor believes is important. The editor is a man who, in his biography page, has no credentials other than he really enjoys writing. Design At first look, there is so much going on and so many links and videos posted that seem to be very random. There is a clear title, but some of the links on the page have nothing to do with the others; there is nothing connecting this information. The pictures and YouTube videos are irrelevant to the other links listed. There is no copyright date, so readers have no idea how up to date this site is. The only way to "contact" the editor is by subscribing to his newsletter. There is too much going on to accurately find any information, and because you can find this site while looking for alternative forms of literature, this site would be completely irrelevant to your search.

WatchKnow.org Michelle Petty, January 22, 2011 Overview: This site is aimed at students ages k-12, with a variety of educational portals from science to math to social studies. The site allows the user to select the area they are learning about, for example social studies and then within that category they can specify a content area like the Trail of Tears. Once the search results come back it offers a variety of information, however the information is only presented through videos and pictures. The site is easy to use and covers a wide variety of topics that makes it useful for students studying a variety of topics. However, without articles it makes using this site in research type projects difficult. Content: The website is clearly aimed at students and links to all content area taught to them. At the bottom of the site there is both a contact link and an about us & visions tab that informs the viewer who maintains the site, its goal, when it was last revised and how to contact someone with questions. When search results are found, the viewer can watch the video, go find the history of the videos to see where they came from and what the video has to offer and a separate tab to leave comments under. All of the video links work and are of good quality and offer a wide range in video content, from people reenacting historical events to math problems being solved step by step. Design: The website, while aimed at ages k-12, caters more to the younger audiences. The graphics used and even the color of font indicate that it wants to appeal to younger aged students. It is easy to navigate and use, and gives plenty of choices in videos and gives the appropriate information about the video that it can be used in an educational setting. I feel like this site would be very useful in replacing youtube videos used in class, because all of these videos are educational and meant for that use. I think I would use this site periodically, but I don't think I would

DAR.org Michelle Petty, January 22, 2011 Overview: The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) website is aimed at educating others about the American Revolution, genealogy of members and scholarships for those who meet the criteria. It is not necessarily aimed at students or teachers, but it is a very informative and useful website for American Revolution projects. The site it set up with clear tabs leading to specific sites and searches. The most important link on this site is its online library catalog, which allows individuals to search for specific battles, commanders, cities and other items related to the American Revolution. Content: This website is aimed at informing the public about the DAR and the American Revolution. It is for an older audience, middle school and high school, and would be most helpful in research projects. It is a very nice, official looking site with a clearly identified author and copyright date along with contact information to the site. The site is organized in a very user friendly way with links on the left hand side of the page, and special featured items on the right and DAR related sites across the top of the page. All links lead to educational sites, or journals that are written by experts in the field. Design: The design of this website is very official, with clearly identified authors and easy to use links. It is easy to navigate, and has links to journals, pictures, and videos that are relevant to the American Revolution. All links work and take the viewer to the correct site, and the information provided at the site is educational and useful. This site is great for American Revolution information and is one that I would use as a teacher, however it is probably too complex and advanced for younger audiences.

http://edtech.kennesaw.edu/web/civwar.html Michelle Petty, January 22, 2011 Overview: This site is aimed at informing viewers about the Civil War. It is aimed at kids the most, but would be beneficial for students of all ages writing a report on the Civil War. The site breaks down the Civil War on leaders, battles, states, pictures, and causes of the war, which then takes the viewer to the appropriate site. I am not sure if this is a site I would use, not all the links work and the page looks like several students put the website together as a project. It is easy to use, but again, not too sure on how reliable all the information is. Content: The site is aimed at informing and educating others on the Civil War. The author is clearly listed at the bottom, along with the date it was last updated and how to get in touch with him about questions. However, it was last updated in 2005 and some of the links no longer work. The links that do work, lead the viewer to mostly educational sites with the website endings of .gov and others along those lines, however some lead to regular .com sites that look like they were hardly researched. Design: The design is very simple and easy to navigate. The links to other sites are on the homepage and easy to use for all ages. However, the overall design is cheesy and unprofessional, with links that no longer work and others that lead the viewer to poorly constructed sites. I would not recommend this site, and would not use it in any educational setting.

A website full of logic puzzles, math videos, word problems, and other math games

Ryan Pinkston January 22, 2011 1) Overview- The primary goals of Math Playground are to help students feel more confident about their math skills and to help them form more positive attitudes toward the subject of math. I try to accomplish these goals by providing engaging games and activities that students find meaningful and fun. 2) Content Credibility- It is easy to determine the basic content and intended audience for this site. The authors of the material are identified and information about the author is easy to find. The content achieves the intended purpose effectively, appears to be complete, and the information is easy to understand. It seems to be free of bias and provided interactivity that increases its vaule. 3) Design Evaluation- The homepage downloaded in a timely manner and is some-what attractive. There are clearly marked tabs and the information for contacting the sponsor is readily available. Directions are clear and easy to follow and the links within the site work efficiently as well. The information is clearly labeled and well organized. The same basic format is used consistently throughout the site. A working link to contact the person for further address is available. 4) I would use this website because it has a ton of different games for math and they are all fun in the own way. It is easy to use and navigate through.

Interactive site for math, vocab, memory, and geography and puzzles.

Ryan Pinkston January 22, 2011 1) Overview- This is a web site that parents and kids can use to learn basic skills while having fun. This goal is to provide a safe place to learn computer skills, math skills, reading skills and problem solving skills in a context that is fun to use. 2) Content Credibility- It is easy to determine the basic content and intended audience. The author was not clearly identified however, the contact information was readily available and easy to locate. The latest revision date was not given and it's not stated how frequently the page is updated. The purpose of the site is effective for the intended use and is well organized with information that is easy to understand. 3) Design Evaluation- The page downloads efficiently and it is somewhat attractive and appears to have strong eye appeal to children. There is an index, the information for contacting the provider is available, and the copyright date is at the bottom of the page. The same basic format is used throughout the whole site, the information is easy to find, and everything is clearly labeled. 4) This is a site that I would use. It has a variety of games for children to use to learn about math and English or science.

Emily E. Krabbenhoft January 22, 2011 Overview: This website provides interactive websites for teachers in grades K-12.  Subjects available range from Reading, Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies. All of the resources are based on standards and can be used to integrate other subjects. Content: While the contact is not actually on the website it is a large resource for links that lead you to these other websites that have already been viewed and used by other educators.Design: The main page is easily used by just clicking on the subject you are wanting to view. However, when you enter a subjects home link page it is just a large list of different links. Thankfully, the links do have a very short explanation of the website but the user will have to do some inquiry before using a website in their classroom in order to see if the website is useful or not. 

Emily E. Krabbenhoft January 22, 2011 Overview: This website has a lot of fun activities and simulations for students to use to further their knowledge about several science concepts. For example, one particular simulation called Weather allows students to learn about weather patterns by reporting the current weather and also predicting future weather in different areas around the nation. Content: Several different simulations allow the students to have fun and learn a great deal in an interactive way. The site is sponsored by The Ohio State University Medical Center and also National Center for Regenerative Medicine. The site only provides simulations to be used for science like simple machines, the weather, and some extensive medical concepts. Design: This website uses bright colors and is very attractive to the eye. Each simulation takes a couple of seconds to load but once loaded are very smooth during the use of the simulation. 

Emily E. Krabbenhoft January 22, 2011 Overview: This website is a resource for teachers who are using SmartBoards in the classroom. It gives teachers different ideas for using the SmartBoard in Math, English, and Geography subjects. Content: The content of the website is really useful for people who are looking for new and innovative ways to use a SmartBoard in their classroom everyday. The website was created by a teacher in the UK. The website provides a way for teachers to lead the conversation not the entire lesson plan so it allows for teachers to decide what will be learned.Design: The website is very easy to navigate. Clearly labeled titles and links on the left side of the web page allows the user to switch from different subjects easily. 

Information on child development including prenatal, physical, intellectual, language and social development.

Ryan Pinkston January 22, 2011 1) The site provides the information and tools parents need to understand the uniqueness of children and to enable them to help each child develop into the successful human being they were meant to be. Their mission is to help parents develop a positive parenting style that leads to a family where parents and children can listen to each other, support each other and have fun playing and enjoying family activities. 2) Content Credibility- It is easy to determine the basic content and intended audience. The authors of the material are available and easy to find. According to the information given the authors appear qualified to present information of this topic. I couldn't tell when the last update occurred but information seems up to date. The website is well organized and the information is easy to understand. 3) Design Overview- The page downloaded in a timey matter. It is a little boring to look at, however, it is clearly organized and has tabs highlighted in different colors depending upon the information you are seeking. The site definitely has information worth visiting; the information is all clearly labeled and organized. Information is easy to find and the links are easy to use. They have links that lead you directly to the staff that provide the information for this website. 4) This is a website that I would use to help parents understand their children. It has a ton of information that can be used to help parents better understand and help their children.

Shelby Shatto January 22nd 2011 Overview: Purpose- provides art lesson plans for elementary educators. Attended Audience- Elementary Educators. Available Resources- Support section; provides resources for craft ideas. Overall Impression-I use this site a lot; provides great craft ideas and caters to various levels of education Content Overview: Easily identify content of site; content persuades you to use Crayola products; well organized Design Overview: Very eye-appealing; site is easy to use and gives sufficient amount of info; last revision and copyright not given

Shelby Shatto January 20th 2011 Overview: Purpose- Provides information to help keep kid's bodies and minds healthy. Attended Audience- Three separate pages for adults, kids and teens. Available Resources- Question/answer section. Overall Impression- Useful for health related curriculum and easy to navigate w/ lots of information. Content Overview: Purpose of the site is clear; sponsor and updates of the site clearly identified; author of information not found Design Overview: Downloads efficiently; great use of multimedia and easy navigation

Shelby Shatto January 22nd 2011 Overview: Purpose- Provides educational resources and lesson plan ideas. Attended Audience-mainly educators of various ages and subjects. Available Resources- "Shout" allows connection with experts and other educators. Overall Impression- Lots of information and great activity ideas for teachers. Content Overview: Attended audience is clearly identified; content is well organized and offers sufficient amount of info. Design Overview: Downloads efficiently; basic format used throughout the site; links are easy to use.

This page reviewed by Joseph Scherden on 1/21/2011 Content Review- The articles in this issue of the online journal are all based on research and they are performed by educated professionals. (The first article is written by two Professors in in Education fields specific to the articles subject area) The page shows that it was published sometime in 2010 but full information is not shown. Design Review- The design for this website layout is most effective in its use of tabs to seperate broad subjects. The page this will link you too has a less effective layout. The page this links too could have a smaller layout with links to information, but instead it is a long list of atricles and abstracts. Not bad, but not as clear and clean as it could be. Overall Review- This is a credible and useful page for educators. The articles are relevant to Education and the Authors are credible. The information is recent and supported with further research that is listed in each article. This page could be a little bit cleaner but maintains a professional appeal with no ads to cluter the page.

This page reviewed by Joseph Scherden 1/21/2011 Content Review: The content of this particular article is useful for English educators, and especially one who intends to teach in a foreign region. The content of was factually based and supported with citations from credible sources as well. The author's credentials are listed and it appears that she is a credible source for this subject. Design Review- The homepage loaded quickly. Tabs at the top of the page direct the user to broad categories of topics, and a side bar link the user to relevant cites. There are no ads and links are provided for information on the authors. Cite is well designed, neat, and easy to navigate. Overall Review- This site was factual and useful. The information was concise and supported. The author was credible and the cite was easily navigable. This cite should be used by any aspiring teachers because it contains articles about academic leadership and is not limited to ESL educators.