Websites

Static webpages used to deliver information are one of the most salient features of web 1.0. However, there is now a whole new generation of template-driven website building services which 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. These websites increasingly involve responsive design, where a website can recognise a user’s device type and 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 these 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 a different 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, creating websites 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 there may be charges for increased functionality, privacy features, security and backups, and web hosting.

The most popular website building services for educators or students who are just beginning in this area include the drag-and-drop services Weebly and Wix, with Google Sites and WordPress (a paid service) being popular among those with a little more experience. Other website creation services include Jimdo, Moonfruit, SimpleDifferent, Tackk, Webs (formerly Freewebs), and Yola. Some of these, and many other website builders, are now available as mobile apps. There are several services which function primarily as RSS aggegators and pull together content from across the web to create a personal dashboard or start page; examples include My Yahoo, Netvibes, Protopage and Start.io.