Zamzar

Zamzar is a free online file conversion software. Zamzar is a free web application; however, it can be purchased. By purchasing Zamzar, more options become available such as faster file conversion and file management. For free users, files can be converted as long as the are less than 1 GB in size.  All Zamzar users can convert a variety of files including audio, graphics, documents and video without the requirement of purchasing anything. The only thing that is required to use it is a valid email address, and both Mac OS X and Microsoft users can easily use Zamzar.  After selecting the files to be converted, Zamzar will email you a link where you can access and download the files with the new format.  This link is only available for 24 hours. These are just a few reasons that Zamzar is a powerful tool

• it's free
• it's fast
• easy to user interface
• no need to download an application
• advertisements are not distracting

Zamzar is a powerful tool for educators!  There are many media sites that are blocked while within a school district's firewall.  Some of these sites contain information that is academically relevant to a classroom, and Zamzar allows a way to utilize these resources.  Another reason Zamzar can benefit educators is when students email assignments.  Because there are a variety of options available in computer platforms and software, not all files can be opened on all computers.  It is also available online, which means it does not require an application to be downloaded.  Oftentimes, teachers are not administrators to their work machines, and adding new applications can either be denied (because of administrative rights) or simple problematic because they have to justify how is educationally relevant.  The BEST part about Zamzar is that is it free!  

The video below is an introduction to Zamzar.  This video can also be found at

http://www.teachertube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=a9e0b49dc35484d52e3c

Just a note, in the video, I did not demonstrate how to convert a file that was already on my computer, as I didn't want to show the world my documents.  Have no fear, it is easy!

Web 2.0

Web 2.0 can be described as the read and write web where users knowledge of intricate code is no longer necessary.  It has transformed the Internet from information consumption to information production, sharing, and trading.  With Web 2.0, anyone can be an author, producer, composer, photojournalist, product reviewer; the list goes on!  Web. 2.0 is

• Synchronous and asynchronous collaboration
• Multi-sensory
• Raising questions about intellectual property and copyright law

Web 2.0 is the communication and collaborative tool of the present and the direction in the future.  It is the age of overwhelming information, and students need media literacy skills, and increased exposure to technology tools.  With a the variety of audio and visual material available on the web, accessing prior knowledge or introducing new ideas digitally is part of the recipe for an interactive, student-centered classroom; however, students' exposure should not be isolated to input.  Production skills are authentic skills needed in the 21st century.  

As an educator, Web 2.0 tools available make be believe there is a need for change in education, but there is a need for a holistic approach.  The classroom, curriculum, fine arts, library, and though I have some personal reservations about it, physical education have a place in Web 2.0 education.