Web 2.0 has brought about many wonderful free web-based tools that have been very useful in classroom instruction. I would like to highlight two new tools that are available for teachers to use as learning management systems for their classes. Both of these tools are web-based and are free to use.

The first tool is Google Sites, another great web-based application offered by Google. Google Sites allows you to create a website without any HTML knowledge. However unlike Google Pages (also a free way to create your own website) you can incorporate all types of additional web-based applications into your pages such as RSS feeds, file sharing, announcements, calendars, and much more. You will need a Google account to use this application but signing up for one is free and easy. To learn more about Google Sites you can watch this 3 minute video tutorial. About one minute into the video they describe how a teacher might use this application.

The second learning management system that is available for teachers to use for free is Edu 2.0. This web-based application tool was specifically made for teachers and students. It provides you with all the necessary requirements to put your course online such as an electronic gradebook, assignment drop box, attendance tracker, quizzes, and so much more. Best of all you can make your course private so only your students can access the course site. It is free and easy to sign up. To learn more you can watch this short 3 minute video.

As always, we would love to hear from you if you try out these sites in your classes.  Leave a comment below and tell us about your experience.