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=Web 2.0 Tutorial= //Professional Development for Educators// The Internet is undergoing an extreme makeover. In the 1990s and the beginning of the 21st century, the World Wide Web was primarily a place for viewers to retrieve information. The information flowed in a one-way direction. Websites were mostly built by "techie" folk who knew complex HTML coding and FTP site management. If you're scratching your head, you're not alone.

Then around 2004 a birth of new web tools began to pop up. These tools allowed common people like us to add content to the web. People with no programming skills were suddenly publishing their own journals, photographs, videos, auctions, podcasts, wikis, slideshows and more. The web became a two-way street. Everyday people were now creating the content.By 2007, a second generation of the web had taken over - Web 2.0. Also known as the Read/Write Web, the new web is a breeding ground for creative and engaging educational endeavors.

Teachers are using the new Web 2.0 tools to launch their classroom into the 21st century. Students are creating online content, collaborating with other students around the world and showcasing their work to a global audience. Web 2.0 facilitates professional networking. It provides authentic learning experiences for students, and it encourages global awareness, creativity, innovation, critical thinking and collaboration. The knowledge our students will gain from engaging with Web 2.0 technologies will foster the communication and information literacy skills that are required in the 21st century.

The great thing about Web 2.0 tools is they are easy to use. Really. And it's all free. Take some time to follow the links on the side, and you will soon be merging onto the information superhighway.