You are probably aware that the Internet is filled with TONS of information, but did you know that there are well over one trillion pages on the World Wide Web? For any topic you decide to search, you will find more information than you could ever possibly use. With so much information overload, it sure would be nice to have some reliable sites that kids could use for research readily available.
For today’s tech snack, I would like to share with you one such website.
Today’s tech snack can be found at the following url: http://www.dkfindout.com/us/ .
What is it and how can I use it in my classroom?
DK FindOut features subject-based, curriculum-linked articles. It is run by the Dorling Kindersley company- the maker of the popular DK books. Similar to a search engine, students can type in what they are looking for and get results. The difference between this site and “typical” search engines is that the results are all certified to be kid safe, reliable and valid. The site contains wonderful graphics, videos and interactive displays. This site is probably most appropriate for elementary school students. Students do not need a username or password to use this site. They only need the url address to access it.
Teacher accounts
While students do not need an account to use this site, teachers have the option of creating teacher accounts. These accounts are free and only require a username and password to create.
Teacher accounts allow you to add content from throughout the site. See below for specifics on how to do this:
So then why would a teacher account be useful? A teacher account is beneficial for two reasons: First, it allows you to save articles for future use. You can print out any articles and distribute them to your students for classwork/homework. Second, if you have an lcd projector you could share your lesson plans with the entire class. This way, you can direct the instruction using the articles as you see fit.
Classroom implications
This site will work on any Internet-enabled devices( ipad, tablets, laptops, smartphones, etc). You, therefore, could use this site as a center activity or as part of a resource for creating a blended learning environment.