By: Krista Thomas
Largest and fastest growing online communities of connected classrooms More than half a million educators and millions of learners Stretches across more than 200 countries and territories Can exchange ideas and questions with other learners from around the world
Access to the entire site in seven different languages An instant translation tool to be able to connect with anyone around the world Professionally moderated discussion forums and monitored accounts Collaborated projects and activities
A Windows, Mac, or Linux operating system One computer for every three students Videoconferencing capability Internet access Digital camera and/or scanner
Using the official ePals website is free of charge for classes with up to 35 students Schoolblog.com costs approximately $330 for a teacher and up to 25 students
Focus areas with a learning path of subtopics in each area Tips, tools, and lessons for teachers Blogs and forums for both teachers and students on the different lessons and/or projects Projects that have the ability to connect with other classrooms to collaborate
Having the ability to chat and work with other students or teachers from different countries Instant translations so others can understand what you are saying
Being able to create a personal profile for potential ePal partners to find you
Easily search for classes that are working on the same material as your class
With a lot of users logged in, the program may run slower than usual Teachers must be knowledgeable about the technology May not connect with what you are teaching in your curriculum Power problems may interrupt the lesson
It is easy to create an account and profile Very easy to find your way around the site All information is very organized, mostly in tables Tips for teachers are located right next to the student activities There is a “How To” section if you need help