Websites

Static webpages used to deliver information are one of the most salient features of web 1.0. However, there is now a whole generation of template-driven website building services that allow users to simply and easily set up websites which are dynamic rather than static and have a more web 2.0 feel and orientation. In fact, we are now seeing a move in a web 3.0 direction with the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) into such services. These websites typically feature responsive design, where a website can recognise a user’s device type and then format itself appropriately (see image above); this means such websites can be aligned easily with mobile learning.

Features typical of web 2.0 which are often found on newer websites include:

• • RSS feeds which automatically import and dynamically update the latest content from social networking, social sharing, blogging or microblogging services
  • chat/IM windows or discussion boards (often in the form of comments boxes) which allow user interaction and feedback
  • polls which allow another kind of user interaction and feedback

In the early days of the web, it was necessary to know HTML code in order to design websites. The process became somewhat easier with the release of web design software like Dreamweaver in the late 1990s. Nowadays, for most people, creating a website is a simple matter of selecting a template from a website building service, and adding desired elements in a drag-and-drop manner. However, it is still useful to learn some HTML code in order to make fine adjustments. Websites can often be set up for free, but many freemium services charge for increased functionality, privacy features, security and backups, and web hosting.

The most popular website building services for educators or students who are starting out in this area include the drag-and-drop Canva Website Builder (free), Weebly (freemium) and Wix (freemium), with Google Sites (free) and WordPress (paid) being popular among those with a little more experience. Other website building services include GoDaddy (paid), Elementor (paid), Jimdo (freemium), SimDif (freemium) and Yola (freemium).

Generative AI is increasingly being incorporated into existing website building services, inlcuding the Wix AI Website Builder and Elementor AI. In addition, dedicated AI-powered website building services (some of which also generate apps, and some of which have broader AI generation functionality) have emerged, including: 10Web, 60 Sec Site, Anything, Bolt, CreateWebsite, Fenado AI, Framer, Gamma, GetSite, Loopple, Mixo, Tips, Typedream, Vzy and WebWave; typically, we see such services start off free of charge, especially when in their beta testing phase, but over time most can be expected to move to freemium or paid models.

Alternatives to using a website building service include building a blog or a wiki. There are several free aggregator services which pull together content from across the web to create a personal dashboard or start page. Many website builders and similar services are also available as mobile apps.

Last update: February 2026.