If you haven’t tried them yet, the following five resources are massively engaging and applicable cross any content area. Free is always a plus!
New Google Sites
This year Google Sites has transitioned into a visually impressive and ultra simple platform to design websites, online learning spaces, dashboards, student projects, online newsletters, etc. Accessing the New Google Sites can be done either by visiting sites.google.com/new or creating it right from Google Drive.
Availability:
Creation– Computer, Chromebook
Audience– Any Device
CoSpaces
One of my new favorite resources for virtual reality content creation is an application called CoSpaces. Within CoSpaces users can create their own virtual environments by using 3D tools, uploading media, and searching the web. With the VR explosion of excitement happening with various VR wear, easily accessible content creation tools is becoming a dire need. We want our students to experience but more importantly we want them to create!
How To Create
Availability:
Creation– Computer, Chromebook, iOS, Android
Audience– Any Device
Recap
Is a platform where educators can connect with all stakeholders (students, parents, community) where they can by text or video ask questions and have their audience (individually respond via video). The simplicity focuses on 3 steps: Assign, Watch, Share.
Availability:
Creation– Chromebook, Computer
Audience– Any Device
Google Expeditions
Expeditions has been on the Edu road map for roughly over a year. In 2015-16 the Expeditions team visited a variety of schools setting up controlled virtual reality experiences. Since late Summer/early Fall Expeditions has been available for mobile devices/tablets (Android and iOS). Now anyone in or outside the classroom can take their audience on a virtual reality expedition around the world. Note: even if you do not have VR headsets you can still utilize this awesome app. Check out this video on running Expeditions with iPads.
Availability:
Creation– No Creation
Audience– Phones, Tablets (Android/iOS)
Toontastic 3D
In late Winter 2017 Toontastic 3D entered my children’s lives and it has never been the same again. This app provides any user the ability to create narratives, explanations, and/or overall fun. Toontastic 3D provides the ability to determine the setting, select/create characters, record audio narration, and publish an animated stories. The ease of use is ridiculously simple and anyone who uses it always comes back for more.
Hansen's Link to Tech 