Schoology+-+Greg

I am reviewing and discussing the online digital classroom website, Schoology.


 * What is Schoology? **

Schoology is a combination social network and learning management system, that combines the best of both to improve both communication among students, teachers, and parents. The result is a program that allows both students and teachers to create groups, post quick updates, and load files. Schoology's setup is designed for ease of use and familiarity, as it bears a strong resemblance to Facebook.

 Schoology's setup allows students quick access to any uploaded materials, assignments, and discussion boards. The calendar allows the instructor to post reminders on certain days. Similar to Facebook and other social networking applications, when the instructor makes changes to the course site, students are updated via an electronic messageboard (Course Feed). Students have the option to link these updates to email and text notification, so as to remain informed of changes.

The website also provides (free) electronic gradebooks, digital dropboxes, and the option to create tests and quizzes online and have them electronically graded. Addtionally Schoology allows instructors to view statistical data of the course, such as who is logging on and how often. 

Many applications are immediately recognizable, but perhaps the main use of this program is to establish a quick and "non-schoolish" way of garnering interest in the class and staying connected with students. Because of the visual similarities to Facebook, many students would most likely feel more comfortable with signing up for and learning this piece of software. The page loads quickly and the tab format allows for quick navigating. Some specific applications: 1. Setting up a discussion question and allowing students to debate online. 2. Homework assignments that students have access to online. This way students always have it available if they happen to "lose" the assignment. 3. Students can create pages in groups, where they can post research or create a project for a class. 4. Students can post media such as videos for classes or even art projects.
 * How can I use this?**

One of the best features of Schoology is the simplicity. It's pretty easy to learn and offers a lot for free. Some issues I had were the online tests offer several types of questions but most don't apply to math very well, unless you design the test this way. I do like the many options you have to change test availability, the number of times taken, and if the test is resumeable. This is helpful to discourage cheating and to be sure that the student is the one taking the exam. Although it's fairly easy to set up, designing pages and other areas takes a little practice, and may be something that the teacher will have to walk students through.
 * Final thoughts?**

By allowing many types of media, I have many options as to what I upload and what I can communicate. Being very Facebook-like I think will appeal to students, and by requiring students to link announcements to email or text accounts (they say more mobile options will be available) they won't miss what you have to say. It does encourage easy and quick communication, but again this will depend on the students and what is required of them. I think the limitations come mainly from the instructor and how he/she uses it. Schoology is simple and easy to adapt to, and hopefully can be useful to any teacher.


 * Final Product!**



**__ DUE DATE: 11/10/10 __**