In this issue of MS-ICTTL e-newsletter, we focus on productivity. Take a look at 3 tools which could help you be better at what you do!
(1) Twiddla - Online Interactive Whiteboard
Have you ever wished you could explain concepts/equations to your students by writing out in real-time instead of talking over the phone or typing out on MSN/email? Especially nearing exam time when students are desperately looking to consult with you? It can be frustrating!
Well frustrate no more! You can now collaborate with your students using an online interactive whiteboard at http://www.twiddla.com !
(2) Web2PDF
Have you ever come across a website with interesting reads which you wished you could save into a PDF for further reading, sharing and archiving?
Now you can with Web2PDF at http://www.web2pdfconvert.com!
How does it work? No sign-ups/installations required!
Just copy the URL of your interesting-website and paste into the dialogue box of Web2PDF.
Then click on the button “Convert to PDF” and wait for a tad. Once done, the site will prompt you to download the converted file and that’s it!
Simple, isn’t it? If you like it, you can even add a bookmarklet* into your browser for easier access. Super cool!
(3) Google Docs Survey
Want to create a survey form online which could capture responses, collate and summarise for you?
Besides Survey Monkey, there are many free survey tools online but I like to create my surveys in Google Docs (http://www.google.com/docs).
The spreadsheet automatically links to the survey form and can be downloaded in EXCEL.
Furthermore, the summary generated in graphical charts is useful and colourful with no effort from me! (See screenshots below.)
Nevertheless, sign-up is required and to learn how to use it, I found this website which documents the steps briefly and visually pretty well:
http://www.speedofcreativity.org/2010/07/30/create-a-free-online-survey-with-google-forms/
Take some time to explore it. Perhaps you can incorporate this tool in the teaching of Statistics!
Also new from this issue onwards, Mr Tang KH will review a book that we have in the TRU. Go grab the book from Alice if the review entices you so!
“101 Strategies to Teach Any Subject” by Mel Silberman
The book promises to enliven your middle school, high school, college or adult education with 101 strategies that can be used to teach virtually any subject. Active Learning contains the most comprehensive collection of active learning techniques ever published. Each strategy is described with clear, step-by-step instructions. If you are committed to making learning active, but occasionally run out of steam, this is the book to get you back on track with fresh ideas and innovative strategies. And if you are just starting off, this book is the perfect introduction.
TRU has placed order for 5 copies of the book and will arrive next week. Go reserve it with Alice!
