ClassTools.net's tag line states that it is a fantastic way of building cutting-edge technology into the curriculum. I think the use of the words 'cutting-edge' may be reaching a bit, but I agree that it is a fantastically simple and effective way of incorporating technology into the curriculum. It is easily customized and enables you to save to your storage device, embed the code in your blog or wiki site or provides a standalone address for you to use on your website.
On its home page, there are three screen flows that get teach you how to use the program. They are simple and to the point. In addition, the FAQs are right below and answer any other questions that you may have about the site, including licensing. Furthermore, there are many examples found on the home page and you can even search by subject or game design. Did I mention there is nothing to sign up for? How cool is that?
ClassTools.net may just be my favorite Web 2.0 tool for review and reinforcement thus far due to its simplicity with impacting results. I created a review of parts of speech and vocabulary words for my students and actually found myself trying to get the next level and the next and the next. I can definitely see my students doing the same and by spending time with the content, their knowledge will increase. It is a great tool with wonderful possibilities and I plan on utilizing it on a regular basis. I am even thinking about how to utilize it as a tool by which my students can create products either for study or presentation.
Do yourself a favor and check this tool out…sometimes the simplest tool creates the best outcome.
You're right. Classtools.net is full of great learning activities! I personally got all engaged in the Venn Diagram activity. With sites like this one, there's really no excuse at all for incorporating technology into the classroom. One of the really nice things about the way this site's tools work is the easy-access style, whereby teachers nor students have to log in or sign up to engage with it. That was really nice. I was able to embed my Venn Diagram onto my Personal Learning Plan mock up (http://sites.google.com/site/marketingdisneyuniversitynow/) in just a few short minutes! Furthermore, as a parent, it wouldn't be difficult at all to click on that Class Tools logo and find other activities for further study. The only challenge I had was with finding just the right activities, but I'm sure even that would come with a little more effort.
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