Authoring Tools

A couple of weeks ago our emering web and mobile technologies class came up with a way to evaluate mobile technology tools.  Our focus was to make sure we could determine what worked for our specific subject and age group.  This week we were asked to look at tools that can be classified as authoring tools.  An example of authoring tools is tagxedo.  Below is an example of tagxedo.

This is a perfect way to introduce some of the topics you will be discussing during the semester.  One thing to keep in mind as an instructor when designing a learning object is your students and how much they enjoy interactive items.  If they have issues with following moving items it is probably best to steer clear of interactive programs.  If however students enjoy interactive learning then you should take advantage of it and use it to your advantage. These tools make for great student presentations and they can also be a fun way to present notes.  One of the tools I like is called Canva.  It gives students the ability to creat simple or elaborate presentations.  Here is a link to an example of a potential assignment on a News Story Debate.  Once you sign up you select your design.  Once you select the design it will move you into the creation area.  You chose the layout, the background, and add your text.  It is simple and quick.