GOOGLE PAGE CREATOR-INTRODUCTION
For Use With: Creating teacher or student web pages, like a class page or a student online porftolio. 

Work WITHOUT Google Page Creator: Teacher or student may have to learn HTML or use an alternate web page maker which may not be free or as robust.

What is Google Page Creator?
Google Page Creator is a free online web page maker and host that requires no programing knowledge. Sites are made through visually driven decisions, a bit like virtual scrapbooking. Tripod is an alternative site that works similarly to Google Page Creator.

Quick Tip (Detailed Instructions and Tutorial Videos Coming Soon):
Two options to look for; first, to upload files, it's the toolbar on the right of the Google Page Creator homepage titled "Uploaded stuff." Uploading student work sample files for a student portfolio is amazingly simple using the upload panel. It has 100mb of free storage. Second, on the bottom of your webpage workspace, check out the "Gadgets" available for extra features. Alternative ways to make class websites include using Blogger as a webpage.

BLOGGER-INTRODUCTION
For Use With: Class or Student Discussion

Work WITHOUT Blogger: No way to share online supplemental class materials with students, especially multimedia sources. Lower participation for shy students.

What is Blogger?
Blogger is a free website that lets you post discussion questions using text, pictures, and videos. Easy for first time bloggers, no coding experience needed.

What use is this to teachers?
a) Extra opportunity for students to participate in class discussion.
b) Alternative way for teachers to share additional resources with students.

INSTRUCTIONS
Instructions for Creating a Blog:
1) Go to: www.blogger.com
2) If you do not have a Google Account, you’ll be asked to create one using any email address. Those who use Gmail will already be registered. Any email address can be used to register a Google Account.
3) Click “Create a New Blog”
4) After your blog is created, click “Settings”
5) Click “Comments” on the menu bar.
6) Determine “Who can comment.” It is recommended that you change it to “Users with Google Accounts.” This means only students with Google Accounts can leave comments. This reduces the chance of anonymous or irresponsible comments.

Instructions for Posting an Entry (Posting/Entry is the main text written by the author, comments are left by readers):
1) Go to: www.blogger.com
2) Log on to your Google Account
3) Click “New Post”
4) Click tab “Compose” to do your posting in a non-programming setting. Click tab “Edit HTML” to work in a programmer friendly setting. I recommend setting your window to “Compose.” You’ll be able to add pictures and videos to your site through their menu tools.
5) Be sure to add a title and tags. Tags are subject labels. Click “Publish Post” when you are ready to post.

Modify/Delete Postings:
Clicking “Post” under the “Manage” toolbar from your main “Blogger” page.

Instructions for Leaving Comments:
1) Go to blog at the website created for that specific blog.
2) Log on to your Google Account (If you specified a log on req. under Settings)
3) Click “Comments”
4) I typically ask students to leave the first name and last initial to help me grade their participation, but I discourage minors from using full names on the Internet.

WIKISPACES-INTRODUCTION
For Use With: Creating community generated online knowledge base/encyclopedia.

Work WITHOUT Wiki: Students will usually expand their knowledge alone.

What is Wikispaces?
Wikispaces is a free website that lets teachers create their own "wikipedia" world in their classroom. It's a cross between webpage making and blogging, where students can work on creating a page of knowedge; usually on a specific topic, as a whole class community. Students learn how knowledge created, edited, and shared. PBWiki is an alternative site that works similarly to Wikispaces and has powerful file management if you plan to upload many files to your wiki.

Quick Tip (Detailed Instructions and Tutorial Videos Coming Soon):
Having students become experts in a specific area of a topic where there is some overlap with other students, produces better results. After creating your Wikispace, specify who can modify your page through the "Manage Space" link on the left menu bar.