Stuff+to+Make+Your+eLife+Simpler





http://www.dropbox.com

**What does it do?** Dropbox is a "cloud based" way to store your files. Think of it as saving your files on your work computer and then accessing them from your home computer. **Why should I use it?** You do not have to worry about emailing yourself files. Also, if you're like me, I am constantlylosing my USB drive. With Dropbox, you never have to use a USB drive again! **How can I use it?** Perhaps using this for lesson plans. Personally, I tend work on my lesson plans at home and when I am done with them, I just put them in my Dropbox at home, and they are waiting for me as soon as I get to work.

**Why it's awesome:** Dropbox is VERY easy to use. Just install it to your computer(s), smart phones, etc. and start dragging the files you want to access from anywhere.

** What does it look like? **





**What does it do?** Tiny URL takes a long URL (website link) and shortens it down to something more manageable. **Why should I use it?** Tiny URL is great if you are letting the entire class use the laptops at once. Instead of having the student typing out an entire website (where we know they will probably type it incorrectly and require teacher assistance) just create a Tiny URL and give them the shorter address. **Why it is awesome.** For one, it's free and is extremely easy to use. Also, once you create a Tiny URL, you do not have to worry about going back changing it. Once it is created, it is permanent.

**How do I use it?** //Here is a "real life example."//Teacher: Alright class, I want you to go to: http://www.funbrain.com/journal/Journal.html?ThisJournalDay=1&ThisPage=1

To save time, do the following: (Only teacher would have to create this.) -Go to: @http://tinyurl.com/ -Copy the following link: http://www.funbrain.com/journal/Journal.html?ThisJournalDay=1&ThisPage=1 -Paste it in the box that is labeled "Enter a long URL to make tiny" and click "Make TinyURL!"

**One more thing!** See where it says Custom Alias? Type something perhaps related to the assignment or even a teacher's name (don't forget to click Make TinyURL!): //This would be great if you have a wiki, where things remain consistent!//

So, what is my new link? @http://tinyurl.com/elakoonce





http://www.wallwisher.com -Really cool site for class collaboration! -No need for students to create accounts. -Teacher creates the question and then sends the website out to students. -Teacher can also set it to where they must approve comments first.

__//For safety and privacy, just have student use their first name.//__

Let's test it out! Go here: @http://www.wallwisher.com/wall/TechTrainingGE



@http://www.screencast-o-matic.com/

**My Personal Favorite!** **What is it?** Screencast-O-Matic is a Web 2.0 tool that lets you record video AND audio directly from your computer. It also stores your videos on their own servers so all you have to do is give student a link. (Maybe use TinyURL to make it easier?) **How could I use this?** For teachers that use Power Points for their lessons. You may also consider this for centers too. For example, open up a Word Document, and record yourself saying something like, "I want you to list three nouns and use each one in a sentence." You can also give examples of what you want to do as well! ** Mobi Users-- Think about how you can write something via your whiteboard and simultaneously record your voice as well! **

Here is an example of how I used this in Technology Class: Watch My Screencast

Here is an example you may use with your Mobi + Screencast. Click Here to View