ThinkFree!

www.thinkfree.com

ThinkFree Office is the first web-based online office program.  The program allows you to create documents (ThinkFree Write), spreadsheets (ThinkFree Calc), and presentations (ThinkFree Show) through a web browser without having to install in your computer.  You can view, edit, and share your documents with others from anywhere.  There is a free trial but can be purchased at $49.95.  The benefits of ThinkFree Office are its compatibility and support to Microsoft Office.  It has a recognizable interface and runs on multiple operating systems. 

There are other features of this program that makes it very resourceful.  ThinkFree Online is using the program for free, and it is unlimited.  ThinkFree Mobile allows you to view and edit using a Smartphone or tablet.  ThinkFree Server allows you to connect at work and documents can be worked on by you and your coworkers. 

I think this is a great tool because it stores documents in the “cloud.”  You are able to share and work on documents together.  Also, it’s easy and fun to use!

WORDLE

http://www.wordle.net/

Wordle is a program created by Jonathan Feinberg.  It is for creating word clouds that uses your own vocabulary words or from a context.  The clouds give the words a more in-depth appearance.  You can edit the fonts, layouts, and colors.  You can edit the language by removing certain words or make the letters small or upper case.   Randomize shows different ways the words are displayed.  You are able to type your own words, paste from a source, or enter a URL of any blog or web page that has Atom or RSS feed.  You are able to view the gallery which includes sample creations. 

The Java program is required when using Wordle.  There is a Wordle Users group if you need help.  What I thought was interesting was that the creator advised teachers not to assign Wordle as homework.  I think this would be a tool I can use in the classroom when teaching vocabulary.  

I’ve always wondered how these pictures were made, and now that I know how, I can utilize it for classroom and personal use. 

 

PREZI

http://prezi.com

Prezi is a cloud-based program that has many features and can be used by many professionals.  Its zoom in and out feature allows you to share ideas and make connections between whiteboards and slides.  It allows you to view from different perspective.  You can view the bigger picture by zooming out or show important details by zooming in. 

Whether you are using Prezi for business, non-profit, conference, presentations are more engaging and memorable.  Prezi for education is excellent for both teachers and students.  Classroom presentations come to life and learning becomes enjoyable and comprehensible. 

The program has features that allow Prezi to be useful and accessible.  Prezi Desktop lets you work online and store your presentation in the cloud or let you work offline and store in your computer.  Prezi meeting permits teams to brainstorm, create, and present ideas in one shared board.  Teams are able to collaborate in different time zones.  Others can view your prezi regardless of location.  Prezi for iPad is used to create and edit presentations at anytime and anywhere.  The touch screen is great for zooming into greater details.  PowerPoint Import allows you to import existing presentations into your prezis.  

Although it may seem overwhelming at first, once you get the feel of prezi, you'll be creating vibrant presentations.  If you are having difficulty and in need of assistance, tutorials are available.