Weblog 3: My website

My website will be designed for a Spanish class, middle school to high school grade levels. I have not had many teachers that have had their own website or if they did, I did not view the page very often. One thing I do find helpful is when teachers post the class syllabus online – whether it be on blackboard or on their own website. I also find it helpful when teachers post powerpoints, class notes or other handouts in class online. If I missed a class for whatever reason I could always go to their website or to Blackboard and find the necessary materials for the class that I missed. Many students misplace or lose papers as well.

A co-worker and former high school teacher I talked to explained to me that she never had a website for class. She told me that she does not think she would be able to create a website on her own without the help of someone. I find that many people feel this way. Before this class, I did not know that there were websites that actually helped you create your own website. She also told me that if she had a website she thinks that extra study tools would be necessary. If students are studying for an exam it would be beneficial to have study guides posted, quizzes and other resources. I have taken this into consideration and have come up with a few resources that I have helped me throughout my high school and college career. Studyspanish.com and spanishdict.com are really helpful.

Web 2.0 apps on my site: After browsing www.go2web20.net I have found some apps that I think will be helpful to students. For example in relation to the Spanish language – busuu, myhappyplanet, spanishpod and italki are all apps that aid in the learning of languages. They even allow you to practice your language skills with a native speaker! I also found apps to create quizzes and note cards – quizinator and knowtes.
I also plan to add a calendar, a grade book, some type of emailing system and my contact info on my website. I also plan to create the website bilingually. There will be Spanish text with English text to it or some type of a translate button.