makebeliefscomix-+Mandy

=__Technology Explanation__=

[|Makebeliefscomix.com] allows users to activate their creativity. The website allows users to create their own unique comic strips. When visiting makebeliefscomix.com for the first time, users can view the brief tutorial which teaches how to create a comic. The users choose the number of panels they would like to include in the comic. Next, a selection of characters can be added to the panels. The user can use the arrows in the selection window to change the expression on their character's face. There are a selection of thought bubbles and speech bubbles that can be added and manipulated if the user wishes to give their characters "something to say." Anything can be typed into the bubbles, so it is easy to personalize the comic strip. Finally, objects such as telephones, pencils, buildings, etc. can be added to enhance the comic. Users are able to use the buttons along the left side of the screen to flip, move, resize, or layer objects that have been added to their strip. After a comic strip has been created, users can easily print their work by selecting the "print" button, or email their comic to others. If email is selected, there is also a link provided for the comic to be published to Facebook.

Here is a sample comic strip I created on makebeliefscomix.com:

=__Classroom Use__= Teachers can use this technology to as a motivator for their students. Students can practice building a character by using the different expressions and adding dialogue for what they think the character might say. Teachers can use this technology to explore the concept of beginning, middle, and end with their students. In addition, this could be a fun writing activity for students of all ages. There are endless possibilities of topics that could be addressed using this technology. I think there are many applications that can be altered for elementary through high school or even college students. Makebeliefscomix.com also provides suggestions for classroom use.

Using the action buttons on the left side of the screen can be a bit cumbersome for the beginning user. Instead of clicking and dragging or making changes with the mouse, users must first make a selection using the action button then use their mouse. Elementary school users may benefit from practice sessions with using the buttons and playing around with the characters, objects, and speech bubbles before being asked to complete an assignment.