Abstract
Web 2.0 tools are websites that are interactive, allowing users not only to read information but also to create products and interact with others. These tools offer new opportunities for designing instruction for heightened student engagement, particularly with “digital natives.” Yet often faculty are unaware of what these tools can do, are uncertain of how to use them, and leery of the time required to design instruction incorporating them. This paper is a very practical introduction to using common Web 2.0 tools including wikis, blogs, and social bookmarking sites. Sample assignments developed and used by the author or described in the literature are described. These assignments are adaptable for use in a variety of disciplines. Wikis are very useful for group work. Blogs can be used effectively for journals and independent studies. Social bookmarking can enhance organization and sharing of professional web resources. Specific tips for setting up and working with the sites are given as well as recommended resources including handouts and videos that introduce the sites. Other types of Web 2.0/social networking sites with promise for use in higher education, such as multimedia production sites, are briefly described and specific sites recommended. Faculty members are encouraged to start with one simple assignment and then expand.
Recommended Citation
Berg, Susan
(2011)
"Web 2.0 Technologies in Higher Education Teaching: A Practical Introduction,"
Kentucky Journal of Excellence in College Teaching and Learning: Vol. 8, Article 2.
Available at:
https://encompass.eku.edu/kjectl/vol8/iss1/2
