The value of instructional technology has increased interest in Web 2.0 applications and spurred development of an overwhelming array of options for instructors to choose from. Presentation overviews a decision-tree designed to facilitate instructors’ selection of the most appropriate Web 2.0 tools to meet their specific instructional goals.
The value of Web 2.0 technology for the classroom is clear; appropriate integration of relevant technologies has the potential to enhance the student learning experience across a variety of dimensions. The value (and potential) of technology has spurred increased interest in Web 2.0 educational tools and had resulted in rapid growth of the field. The vast array of currently available Web 2.0 technologies is overwhelming; and the options only continue to expand. The wide variety of technologies available often leaves faculty unable to make informed decisions about which Web 2.0 applications are most relevant for their particular pedagogical needs. Complicating the matter further, faculty often lack the time and/or experience to research the specifics of each technology option to facilitate an informed decision-making process. To facilitate integration of appropriate, relevant Web 2.0 tools into the classroom, it is important to understand the key dimensions driving faculty’s use of Web 2.0 technologies. Presentation overviews data from faculty and instructional designers that rates the importance of technology integration decisions as well as the value of technology for addressing specific pedagogical challenges. Data is aggregated into a decision-tree that facilitates faculty’s selection of Web 2.0 tools by guiding them through a series of questions that narrows down options to target a narrow range of the most relevant Web 2.0 tools to meet the needs of that particular faculty member. Aligned with the decision-tree, Web 2.0 options are categorized according to pedagogical application, cost, utility, ease-of-use and related dimensions.